IRS letters
Got a letter from the IRS? What to do first
A letter from the IRS feels urgent, and most of the time it's a specific question with a clear next step.
The IRS sends notices for many routine reasons: a change to your refund, a balance due, a question about something on your return, a request to verify your identity or a delay in processing. Here is how to handle one calmly, in order.
1. Find the notice number
Look in the upper-right corner of the letter for a number that starts with CP or LTR. That number tells you which kind of notice it is. You can search it on IRS.gov to read what that notice usually means.
2. Check the due date
Many notices ask you to act by a specific date. Write it down. Responding by that date protects your options, including your right to disagree and appeal.
3. Compare the letter to your return
Pull out your copy of the return the letter is about. If the IRS says it changed something, see whether the change matches your records.
- If you agree: do what the notice asks. You often don't need to reply unless the letter asks you to.
- If you disagree: follow the instructions in the notice and include copies of documents that support your side, by the due date.
- If you owe a balance: pay what you can by the due date, even if it isn't the full amount. Paying on time can reduce interest and penalties.
4. Make sure it's really from the IRS
The IRS usually starts with a letter in the mail. Be wary of anyone who contacts you first by email, text or social media asking for personal or bank information, or who demands payment by gift card or wire transfer. If a letter looks suspicious, call the IRS at the number listed on IRS.gov rather than a number in the letter.
5. Keep everything together
Keep the letter, your copy of the return and anything you send back. Make copies before you mail anything, and note the date you sent it.
When to get help with an IRS notice
Bring the letter to a tax professional when the notice involves an audit, a large balance, several years, or a change you don't understand. At TaxTime we read IRS letters with clients every month of the year, not only in tax season. See how we help with IRS letters and audits, or call the office and bring the letter in.
Common questions
Where is the notice number on an IRS letter?
It's in the upper-right corner of the letter and starts with CP or LTR. You can search that number on IRS.gov to see what the notice usually means.
Do I have to reply to every IRS letter?
No. If you agree with the notice and it doesn't ask for a reply, you generally just do what it asks. If it asks for a response, or you disagree, respond by the due date in the letter.
What if I can't pay the full amount the IRS says I owe?
Pay what you can by the due date, since paying on time can reduce interest and penalties, and talk with a tax professional about your options for the rest.
This article is general information, not tax advice for your situation. Rules and amounts can change; check IRS.gov or call us.