If I owe will the IRS take my whole check

[DoninGA]

If you owe back taxes and are filing the 2024 tax return with a tax refund, the IRS will seize the refund and apply that amount to the taxes owed plus any penalties and interest.  If the refund satisfies the debt the IRS will then mail the remaining refund to the address on the tax return.  If the refund does not satisfy the debt the IRS will send you a bill in the mail for payment of the remaining debt.