Understanding your IRS Notice or Letter

Your notice or letter from the IRS will explain the reason for the contact and provide instructions on how to handle the issue. It is important to carefully read and understand the information provided. If you agree with the information, there is no need to contact the IRS.

If you are unable to find your notice or letter using the search function on the IRS website, or if you believe the notice or letter looks suspicious, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040. If you determine that the notice or letter is fraudulent, please follow the guidance provided by an IRS assistor or visit the IRS Report Phishing page for next steps.

If you require a copy of your IRS notice or letter in Braille or large print, you can visit the Information About the Alternative Media Center page on the IRS website for more details.

Why was I notified by the IRS?

The IRS sends notices and letters for the following reasons:

1. You have a balance due.
2. You are due a larger or smaller refund.
3. The IRS has a question about your tax return.
4. The IRS needs to verify your identity.
5. The IRS needs additional information.
6. The IRS has made changes to your return.
7. The IRS needs to notify you of delays in processing your return.

Next Steps

Read

Each notice or letter from the IRS contains valuable information, so it is crucial to read it carefully. If the IRS has made changes to your tax return, compare the information provided in the notice or letter with the information in your original return.

Respond

If your notice or letter requires a response by a specific date, there are two main reasons why you should comply:

1. To minimize additional interest and penalty charges.
2. To preserve your appeal rights if you do not agree with the IRS.

You should respond as indicated on your letter or notice, which may include mail, fax, or digitally through the IRS' Documentation Upload Tool.

Pay

Pay as much as you can, even if you are unable to pay the full amount you owe. You can make a payment online or apply for an Online Payment Agreement or Offer in Compromise. For more information, visit the IRS payments page.

Keep a Copy of Your Notice or Letter

It is important to keep a copy of all notices or letters from the IRS with your tax records. You may need these documents later for reference or documentation purposes.

Contact the IRS

The IRS provides its contact phone number on the top right-hand corner of the notice or letter. Typically, you only need to contact the IRS if you do not agree with the information provided, if the IRS has requested additional information, or if you have a balance due. You can also write to the IRS at the address provided in the notice or letter. Please allow at least 30 days for a response if you choose to write.

Locating the Notice or Letter Number

You can find the notice (CP) or letter (LTR) number on either the top or bottom right-hand corner of your correspondence.