Do’s and Don’ts for taxpayers who get a letter or notice from the IRS

The IRS mails letters or notices to taxpayers for a variety of reasons including if:

• They have a balance due.
• They are due a larger or smaller refund.
• The agency has a question about their tax return.
• They need to verify identity.
• The agency needs additional information.
• The agency changed their tax return.

Here are some do's and don'ts for taxpayers who receive one:

• Don't ignore it. Most IRS letters and notices are about federal tax returns or tax accounts. The notice or letter will explain the reason for the contact and gives instructions on what to do.
  
• Don't panic. The IRS and its authorized private collection agencies generally contact taxpayers by mail. Most of the time, all the taxpayer needs to do is read the letter carefully and take the appropriate action.
  
• Do read the notice. If the IRS changed the tax return, the taxpayer should compare the information provided in the notice or letter with the information in their original return. In general, there is no need to contact the IRS if the taxpayer agrees with the notice.
  
• Do respond timely. If the notice or letter requires a response by a specific date, taxpayers should reply in a timely manner to:
  
  • minimize additional interest and penalty charges.
  • preserve their appeal rights if they don't agree.
    

  More Information:

  • Understanding Your IRS Notice or Letter
  • Tax Topic 651, Notices – What to Do
  • Tax Topic 653, IRS Notices and Bills, Penalties, and Interest Charges
  • Tax Topic 654, Understanding Your CP75 or CP75A Notice Request for Supporting Documentation