Liens & Encumbrances
A lien that attaches to all of a debtor's property. Both real and personal, rather than to a single specific property.
A general lien gives the creditor a claim against all of the debtor's assets, not just one specific property. Examples include federal and state income tax liens, judgment liens, and estate tax liens. This is contrasted with a specific lien, which attaches to only one particular property (such as a mortgage or mechanic's lien). General liens can affect the debtor's ability to sell or refinance any property they own.
Exam Tip
General lien = all property. Specific lien = one property. A judgment lien is general; a mortgage is specific.
Study Guide
Liens & Encumbrances
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NY Real Estate Liens
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