Understanding Communications from the Internal Revenue Services (IRS)
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What taxpayers should do if they receive mail from the IRS
IRS sends notices and letters when it needs to ask a question about a taxpayer’s federal tax return, let them know about a change to their account or request a payment. Do not panic if something comes in the mail from the IRS – they are here to help.
When a taxpayer receives mail from the IRS, they should:
Read the letter carefully. Most IRS letters and notices are about federal tax returns or tax accounts. Each notice deals with a specific issue and includes any steps the taxpayer needs to take. A notice may reference changes to a taxpayer's account, taxes owed, a payment request or a specific issue on a tax return. Taking prompt action could minimize additional interest and penalty charges.
Review the information. If a letter is about a changed or corrected tax return, the taxpayer should review the information and compare it with the original return. If the taxpayer agrees, they should make notes about the corrections on their personal copy of the tax return and keep it for their records. Typically, a taxpayer will need to act only if they do not agree with the information, if the IRS asked for more information or if they have a balance due.
Take any requested action, including making a payment. The IRS and authorized private debt collection agencies do send letters by mail. Taxpayers can also view digital copies of select IRS notices by logging into their IRS Online Account. The IRS offers several options to help taxpayers struggling to pay a tax bill.
Reply only if instructed to do so. Taxpayers do not need to reply to a notice unless specifically told to do so. There is usually no need to call the IRS. If a taxpayer does need to call the IRS, they should use the number in the upper right-hand corner of the notice and have a copy of their tax return and letter.
Let the IRS know of a disputed notice. If a taxpayer does not agree with the IRS, they should follow the instructions in the notice to dispute what the notice says. The taxpayer should include information and documents for the IRS to review when considering the dispute.
Keep the letter or notice for their records. Taxpayers should keep notices or letters they receive from the IRS. These include adjustment notices when the IRS takes an action on a taxpayer's account. Taxpayers should keep records for three years from the date they filed the tax return.
For more information on IRS notices or letters you can search for it by number or topic (find the CP or LTR number on the right corner of the letter) go to website: Understanding your IRS notice or letter | Internal Revenue Service
IRS Resources
Identity Theft Link: Identity Theft Central | Internal Revenue Service
Scam Link: Recognize tax scams and fraud | Internal Revenue Service
For your Return Transcript: Get your tax records and transcripts | Internal Revenue Service
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance locator: Get Free Tax Prep Help
Taxpayer Assistance Center Locator: IRS Local Office Locator | Internal Revenue Service
Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAC): Taxpayer Advocate | Internal Revenue Service
Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITC): Low Income Taxpayer Clinics | Internal Revenue Service