--- title: Why Would the IRS Send Me a Letter? What Do They Mean? description: Learn why you might receive a letter from the IRS, the various types of letters they send, and what steps to take if you receive one. image: https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Why%20Would%20the%20IRS%20Send%20Me%20a%20Letter%20-%201.jpg --- - [Contact Us](https://cmp.cpa/contact-us/) - [Bill Pay](https://cmp.cpa/my-account/) - [File Drop-Off](https://app2.gettruss.io/firm_drop_offs/new?auth_token=MTQyNyZ6OW1HeHh4NWhRbXNIRDF6RmU3OVZXRGJRUkV2aU5ZSGN0OXprNUtH&firm_user_id=3261) - [Client Portal](https://app2.gettruss.io/client_portals/sign_in?client_portal_name=CMP-CPA) [![CMP](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Cookmartin-Dec2015/CMP-Logo.png "Cook Martin Poulson, P.C.")](https://cmp.cpa/) - [Home](https://cmp.cpa/) - [About](https://cmp.cpa/company/) - [Meet the Team](https://cmp.cpa/company/meet-the-team/) - [Community](https://cmp.cpa/company/community/) - [CMP Celebrates 40-Years In Business](https://cmp.cpa/company/news/) - [Careers](https://cmp.cpa/company/careers/) - [Reviews & Testimonials](https://cmp.cpa/reviews/) - [Services](https://cmp.cpa/services/) - [Tax Preparation](https://cmp.cpa/services/income-tax-services/) - [Tax Planning](https://cmp.cpa/services/tax-planning/) - [Financial Audits & Reviews](https://cmp.cpa/services/financial-statements-audits-and-reviews/) - [Business Valuation](https://cmp.cpa/services/business-valuations/) - [Estate and Succession Planning](https://cmp.cpa/services/estate-succession-planning/) - [ERISA / 401K Audits](https://cmp.cpa/services/erisa-audits/) - [Crypto Tax Accountant](https://cmp.cpa/services/crypto-tax/) - [Federal R&D Tax Credit](https://cmp.cpa/services/rd-tax-credit-services/) - [Utah R&D Tax Credit](https://cmp.cpa/services/utah-rd-tax-credit-services/) - [Bookkeeping and Payroll](https://cmp.cpa/services/bookkeeping-and-payroll-services/) - [Accounting Software Solutions & Consulting](https://cmp.cpa/services/accounting-software-solutions/) - [Retirement Plan Services and TPA](https://cmp.cpa/services/retirement-plan-tpa-services/) - [Cost Segregation Studies](https://cmp.cpa/services/cost-segregation/) - [Outsourced CFO](https://cmp.cpa/services/cfo-outsourced-solutions/) - [Industries](https://cmp.cpa/industries/) - [Farm and Ranch](https://cmp.cpa/industries/farm-ranch-accountant-service/) - [Real Estate and Construction](https://cmp.cpa/industries/real-estate-construction/) - [Retail and Wholesale](https://cmp.cpa/industries/wholesale-and-retail-accounting-services/) - [Nonprofit](https://cmp.cpa/industries/non-profits/) - [Manufacturing](https://cmp.cpa/industries/manufacturing/) - [Healthcare](https://cmp.cpa/industries/healthcare/) - [Technology](https://cmp.cpa/industries/software-technology/) - [Internet Marketing/YouTube](https://cmp.cpa/industries/internet-marketing-youtube/) - [Resources](https://cmp.cpa/resources/) - [Videos](https://cmp.cpa/videos/) - [Tools](https://cmp.cpa/resources/#tools) - [Important Documents](https://cmp.cpa/resources/#import-doc) - [Important Links](https://cmp.cpa/resources/#import-link) - [FAQ](https://cmp.cpa/resources/faqs/) - [Problems We Solve](https://cmp.cpa/problems-we-solve/) - [Blog](https://blog.cmp.cpa/)   Wasatch Front  [801-467-4450](tel:8014674450) |  Cache Valley [435-750-5566](tel:4357505566)[tel:8017428119](tel:8017428119) | Southern Utah  [435-269-4540](tel:4352694540) ![Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hs-fs/hubfs/Cookmartin-Dec2015/Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg?width=1106&name=Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg "Salt-Lake-City-Utah.jpg") # Why Would the IRS Send Me a Letter? What Do They Mean? Published October 09, 2023 By [Woody Udy](https://blog.cmp.cpa/author/woody-udy) Why Would the IRS Send Me a Letter? What Do They Mean? 11:24 Nobody wants to hear from the Internal Revenue Service. We want to pay our taxes, file our returns, get a tax refund, and never talk to the IRS. Since that’s not always possible, it’s important to know what to do when you receive an IRS letter. At CMP, we help our clients with tax issues every day. In this guide, we’ll explain what IRS letters are, why they’re sent, the various types of letters, and what to do if you receive one. ![Why Would the IRS Send Me a Letter](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hs-fs/hubfs/Why%20Would%20the%20IRS%20Send%20Me%20a%20Letter.jpg?width=870&height=435&name=Why%20Would%20the%20IRS%20Send%20Me%20a%20Letter.jpg) ## What is an IRS Letter? IRS letters are notices to taxpayers that there’s an issue with their taxes. It may be something simple or something complex, but ignoring a letter from the IRS is never advisable. If the IRS needs to communicate with you, it usually writes first, by mail. The IRS sends letters to the mailing address they have on file. It may also call, and in-person visits are rare. It’s not uncommon for [scammers](https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scamsconsumer-alerts) to pretend to be IRS agents, so be wary of any unexpected communication in another format, such as an email, text, or phone call. ## Why Would the IRS Send Me a Letter? Let’s start with what the IRS says about the letters they send. *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.* The IRS may send you a letter because there’s a correction to be made to your federal [tax return](https://cmp.cpa/services/income-tax-services/) because you owe money or because there’s been a change to your account.  ![Cover of the CMP IRS Notice Response Checklist](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hs-fs/hubfs/Lead_Magnets/card-thumb-irs-notice-checklist.png?width=150&name=card-thumb-irs-notice-checklist.png) Free checklist · Seven pages The first 30 days, in order This article explains why the letter arrived. Our checklist covers what to do about it — in the order to do it, beginning with the 48 hours after you open the envelope. - CP14, CP2000, CP504, LT11 and L3219 in plain English - Which two deadlines are statutory, and what is lost by missing them - Five mistakes that cost money — starting with paying a CP2000 too soon - How to respond so it lands: certified mail, copies never originals - First-Time Abatement, the penalty relief most people never ask for [Get the Free Checklist](https://info.cmp.cpa/irs-notice-checklist?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=inline_cta&utm_campaign=why-would-the-irs-send-me-a-letter&utm_content=irs-checklist-mid) PDF · seven pages · no cost ## Types of IRS Letters There are several types of letters you might receive from the IRS. Here are some of the most common. ### CP2000 Notice of Proposed Adjustment The [CP2000](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp2000-notice) is the most common letter sent by the IRS. It’s a notice that there’s a discrepancy between the income you reported on your tax return and what your employer(s) reported. The CP2000 may mean you have to pay the IRS. It could also mean that you’re getting a refund. ### CP2501 Tax Return Discrepancy The [CP2501](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp2501-notice) is a notice that indicates a discrepancy between the information on your tax return and what the IRS has on file. It won’t necessarily impact the amount of tax you owe. You’ll have 30 days to respond to a CP2501 and correct the discrepancy. ### CP75A Audit Notice for Earned Income Credit, Dependents and Filing Status [A CP75A notice](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp75a-notice) is what the IRS sends when they’re auditing your federal tax return and want documents to verify certain information. It isn’t a request for a taxpayer identification number. The documents the IRS asks for relate to: - Your filing status - Your dependents - Data supporting the Earned Income Credit You’ll receive forms with this letter, which you should fill out promptly and return with supporting documentation. ### CP90/CP297 Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing A [CP90 or CP297](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp297-notice) letter is a final notice that the IRS intends to levy your property or rights to property, which can include wages, bank accounts and Social Security benefits. It also gives you the right to request a Collection Due Process hearing.  If you receive a levy notice, act before the deadline on the letter. You can pay in full, set up a payment plan, request a Collection Due Process hearing, or ask about other options, such as an offer in compromise or a temporary delay in collection if you can’t pay. ### CP161 Unpaid Taxes or Contact Stub for Department Manager's Office or LT16 Notice Both [CP161 notices](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp161-notice) and [LT16 notices](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-lt16-notice) are letters informing you that you’ve got a balance of unpaid taxes.  You’ll receive documentation showing how the IRS calculated the amount you owe. You should compare the documentation to the calculations you made for your tax return and either pay the amount owed or dispute it. ### CP3219N or CP12 Deficiency or Adjustment Notices of Tax Issues [CP3219N](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp3219n-notice#:~:text=The%20CP3219N%20is%20a%20Notice,challenge%20the%20tax%20we%20proposed.) and CP12 notices have a few things in common. A CP3219N is a notice of deficiency the IRS sends when it hasn’t received your return and has figured your tax for you. You have 90 days (150 days if the notice is addressed to you outside the U.S.) to petition the Tax Court. Filing a return may resolve the issue, but it doesn’t extend that deadline. A [CP12](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp12-notice#:~:text=What%20this%20notice%20is%20about,original%20refund%20amount%20has%20changed.) notice is a notice that the IRS has corrected at least one mistake on your tax return. If you’re getting a refund and you agree with the notice, you can wait 4–6 weeks, and you’ll get your refund. If you disagree or owe money, you have 60 days to respond and dispute the assessment or set up a payment plan. ### LT11 or L1058 Notice to Pay Overdue Taxes If you receive an [LT11 or L1058 notice](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-lt11-notice-or-letter-1058) from the IRS, you’ll need to act immediately if you want to avoid the IRS seizing your property to satisfy your past-due balance. This notice also gives you the right to request a Collection Due Process hearing.  You can pay your balance online. If you owe $50,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest, you can usually set up a long-term payment plan online, and if you owe less than $100,000, you can usually set up a short-term plan (180 days or less) online. Other arrangements may require financial information. Keep in mind that if you miss a payment, the IRS can still take collection action. ### CP501 & CP502 Balances Due Notice for Unpaid Taxes If you receive a [CP501](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp501-notice) or CP502 notice from the IRS, it means you have a past-due balance. This notice is your first warning that the IRS will undertake collection actions, up to and including a tax levy, to get what you owe them. The CP502 is a second warning that your balance remains unpaid and will be sent if you don’t respond to the CP501. It’s an escalation, but there’s still time to pay your balance and avoid a levy. ### CP503 Second Reminder That You Still Owe a Balance The CP503 is a second reminder that you still owe a balance. It typically follows a CP14 and a CP501. It represents an opportunity to pay your balance in full or call to arrange a payment plan. You also have the right to dispute the balance owed. If you fail to respond to a [CP503](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp503-notice), the IRS could issue a tax lien or tax levy to collect the balance owed. ### CP504 Notice of Intent to Levy A [CP504](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp504-notice) notice is a Notice of Intent to Levy. It lets the IRS take your state tax refund and warns that a levy on other property is coming. Before the IRS levies wages, bank accounts or Social Security payments, it generally sends a final notice, such as an LT11 or Letter 1058, that gives you the right to a hearing. Unpaid balances can also lead to a [tax lien](https://blog.cmp.cpa/tax-lien-utah). If you receive a CP504 letter, you must either pay the amount due immediately, request a payment plan, or make an appeal to the Collection Appeal Program. A CP504 isn’t the notice that carries the general right to a hearing. That comes with a later notice, such as an LT11, a Letter 1058, or a CP90. ## Understanding Letters From The IRS When you get a letter from the IRS, don’t panic. Here are some tips to help you understand your letter. ### Key Information to Look For Look for these items in your letter. - The LTR or CP number should appear at the top or bottom right of the letter. You’ll need this information to understand why the IRS is contacting you. - The contact number will appear at the top right-hand corner of the notice. - You’ll see an address if you choose to respond by mail. It may take up to 30 days for a response. - Additional information related to the specific issue, e.g. an adjustment to your tax return or an amount owed. ### Different Sections of an IRS Letter Explained There are a few key areas you should understand when you receive a letter or notice from the IRS. There’s a box at the upper right-hand corner or bottom right corner. It should include the type of notice you’ve received, the date of the notice, the tax year the notice pertains to, the type of notice you’ve received, your personal taxpayer information, and information about how to pay outstanding balances.  If you owe money, you may see a billing summary on the first page. This section outlines the total federal taxes owed, the amount you’ve already paid, and any late fees or penalties that you’ve accrued. There may be more than one page in the notice you receive. It’s common for the second and subsequent pages to contain detailed information on how you should proceed. That includes the amount owed, where to remit payment, a contact phone number, and information about future penalties and fees if you don’t pay what’s owed. Keep in mind that different notices and letters may have slightly different formats. If you need help understanding an IRS letter, we recommend talking to a [tax professional](https://cmp.cpa/). ## What to Do When You Receive an IRS Letter There are some simple steps you should take when you receive an IRS letter. ### Steps to Take Upon Receiving IRS Correspondence If you get an IRS letter, timely action is a must. Follow these steps. - Don’t panic. - Read the letter completely. - Review the information and compare it to your tax return. - If you agree with the proposed changes, follow the instructions on the notice. Some notices, such as a CP2000, ask you to sign and return a response. Then keep a copy with your tax records. - Take any requested action as soon as possible. Actions may include making a payment, requesting an installment agreement, or filing a dispute. - Advise the IRS of disputes immediately. - Contact the IRS only if it’s necessary. If you agree with the changes and there’s no balance due, you can simply file the letter with your corrected tax return. Free checklist · Seven pages Keep the steps in front of you The same steps as above, plus the notice numbers decoded, the deadline table, and what to attach when you write back — on seven printable pages. [Get the Free Checklist](https://info.cmp.cpa/irs-notice-checklist?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=inline_cta&utm_campaign=why-would-the-irs-send-me-a-letter&utm_content=irs-checklist-end) ### When and How to Respond to IRS Letters Responding to an IRS letter may be simple. If you owe money and can afford to pay it immediately, the only action required is to pay it. If the IRS is requesting information from you, you’ll need to provide it as quickly as possible. For example, you might need to correct your address or other personal information. If you want to dispute the information in the letter or require a payment plan, you’ll need to contact the IRS: the [Independent Office of Appeals](https://www.irs.gov/appeals) if you have a dispute, and [this page](https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application) if you want to request a payment plan. If the letter concerns a research credit you claimed, the response usually takes more than a payment or a quick correction. Our post on [responding to an R&D tax credit audit notice](https://blog.cmp.cpa/prepare-for-rd-tax-credit-audit/) covers what comes next, from preserving project records to preparing for document requests. ## Why would the IRS send me a letter after I already got my refund? Getting your refund doesn’t mean the IRS is finished with your return. Refunds usually go out before the IRS has matched every W-2 and 1099 against what you reported. If it later finds income that wasn’t on your return, it usually sends a CP2000. A W-2 from a former employer that never made it onto the return is one example. If that’s your situation, our guide to [filing taxes after a job change](https://blog.cmp.cpa/changing-jobs-impact-tax-return) explains how each W-2 should be reported. A math error or a credit it can’t verify brings a different notice. The letter may say you owe some of the refund back, plus interest and sometimes a penalty. Sometimes it says you’re owed more. **What to do:** the steps above apply. With a CP2000, check the IRS numbers against your W-2s and 1099s before you pay, and respond by the date on the letter whether you agree or not. Don’t ignore it. Interest keeps adding up, and unanswered notices escalate. If the amount is large or the letter doesn’t make sense, our CPAs in Logan, Layton and St. George can review it and help you respond. ## Seeking Professional Advice There may be times when it’s wise to consult a tax professional or accountant after you receive an IRS letter. ### When to Consult a Tax Professional or Accountant There are some issues that you may be able to resolve on your own. If you owe a small balance and can afford to pay, you don’t need a tax professional to help you. You should consult an accountant or tax professional if you don’t understand the letter you received, you can’t afford to pay, or you’re being [audited](https://blog.cmp.cpa/surviving-irs-tax-audit). In these cases, it’s important to have a professional by your side to walk you through the process and avoid costly mistakes. Every individual and business would like to avoid being audited by the IRS. In this blog post, there are things you can do to fish out [audit red flags and survive an IRS audit](https://blog.cmp.cpa/surviving-irs-tax-audit). Knowing what acts as audit red flags is crucial for avoiding IRS scrutiny. ### Benefits of Professional Guidance in Responding to IRS Letters There are some significant benefits to getting professional guidance in responding to IRS letters, including the following. - You can be sure that you understand the letter and what you need to do. - You can get help negotiating reductions in fees and penalties. - You can be sure you provide the proper information in response. - A tax pro or accountant can help you set up a payment plan you can afford. - You won’t need to worry about making mistakes. If you’re worried about any of these things, you may want to consider working with a tax professional. ## Get the IRS Help You Need from Our Tax Pros Receiving a letter from the IRS can be unsettling, but it’s important not to panic. The information provided here can help you understand the letter and guide you through the necessary steps. Need professional guidance with an IRS letter? Our [tax professionals in St. George, UT](https://cmp.cpa/locations/stgeorge/), as well as our teams in Layton and Logan, are here to assist you. Contact CMP today to schedule a free consultation! *This content is for educational purposes only and may not apply to your specific tax situation. Tax laws are complex, subject to change, and depend on individual circumstances. Consult a qualified tax advisor before relying on this information.* [![Woody Udy](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hs-fs/hubfs/Woody-Udy-CMP.jpg?width=160&height=190&name=Woody-Udy-CMP.jpg)](https://cmp.cpa/team/woody-udy/) About Woody Udy Woody Udy is a Tax Directory in the CMP Logan office. He is a Cache Valley native from Smithfield and graduated with his master’s degree in accounting in the spring of 2023 from Utah State University. Woody’s primary focus is on individual and small business taxation. He currently specializes in bookkeeping, payroll, and new business setup. He enjoys building new relationships with clients and making sure to set them up for success. Outside of accounting, Woody enjoys spending time with his wife, family, and friends. He loves to be outdoors skiing, golfing, or helping on his family’s ranch. [Read Full Bio](https://cmp.cpa/team/woody-udy/) RECENT BLOG POSTS - [How Are Stock Options Taxed? A Complete Guide to ISOs, NSOs, and RSUs](https://blog.cmp.cpa/stock-options-tax-guide/) - [How to File Taxes If You Switched Jobs](https://blog.cmp.cpa/changing-jobs-impact-tax-return) - [When Is a Financial Statement Review Enough?](https://blog.cmp.cpa/when-is-financial-statement-review-enough) Get our quarterly tax newsletter Four short emails a year, each timed to a moment that matters for your taxes, with a practical tip from one of our CPAs in every issue. Unsubscribe anytime. 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Trusted By: Trusted By: - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Fisher-1.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/kaddas-1.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Renegade.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/cvm.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/evolution.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Baicor.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Cliffside.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Vista-Healthcare.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Spartan-Logo.png) - ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/SWSP-Southwest-Spine.png) - ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Rancho-Markets%201.png) - ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Highmark-Consturction-Logo.png) - ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Chanshare-Farms-Logo.png) - ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Mebie%20Baby%201.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Fisher-1.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/kaddas-1.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Renegade.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/cvm.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/evolution.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Baicor.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Cliffside.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Vista-Healthcare.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Spartan-Logo.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/SWSP-Southwest-Spine.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Rancho-Markets%201.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Highmark-Consturction-Logo.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Chanshare-Farms-Logo.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Mebie%20Baby%201.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Fisher-1.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/kaddas-1.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Renegade.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/cvm.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/evolution.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Baicor.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Cliffside.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Vista-Healthcare.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/Spartan-Logo.png) ![](https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/SWSP-Southwest-Spine.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Rancho-Markets%201.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Highmark-Consturction-Logo.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Chanshare-Farms-Logo.png) ![](https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Trusted%20By%20Logo/Mebie%20Baby%201.png) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Woody Udy", "url" : "https://blog.cmp.cpa/author/woody-udy" }, "dateModified" : "2023-10-09", "datePublished" : "2023-10-09", "description" : "IRS letters are official notices that there is an issue or update related to your tax return or tax account. This article explains why the IRS sends letters, the most common types of notices, how to read and understand them, and what steps to take when you receive a letter so you can respond correctly and avoid additional penalties.", "hasPart" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "An IRS letter is an official notice mailed to the address the IRS has on file for you. It usually relates to your federal tax return or tax account and explains an issue, a proposed change, a balance due, or a request for information. The IRS does not initiate contact by email, text, or social media." }, "name" : "What is an IRS letter?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Most IRS letters and notices are sent because there is a change to your account, a correction to your tax return, a balance due, a payment request, or a specific issue that needs your attention. The letter explains what the IRS proposes or has already done, and what actions you may need to take." }, "name" : "Why would the IRS send me a letter?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Common IRS letters include notices about proposed adjustments, return discrepancies, requests for documentation, balances due, deficiency notices, levy warnings, and payment reminders. Each notice has a CP or LT number that identifies the issue." }, "name" : "What are the common types of IRS letters?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A CP2000 notice is issued when information on your tax return does not match data provided to the IRS by employers or financial institutions. The notice proposes changes to your tax return and may show an additional balance due or revised refund." }, "name" : "What is a CP2000 Notice of Proposed Adjustment?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A CP2501 notice indicates that the IRS has found a discrepancy between the information you reported and what third parties reported. You typically have 30 days to explain the difference or file a corrected return." }, "name" : "What is a CP2501 tax return discrepancy notice?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A CP75A is sent when the IRS needs verification of items such as dependents, filing status, or Earned Income Credit eligibility during an audit. The notice requests supporting documentation by a specific deadline." }, "name" : "What is a CP75A audit notice?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "CP90 and CP297 notices are final notices that the IRS intends to levy your property or rights to property, such as wages, bank accounts or Social Security benefits. They also give you the right to a Collection Due Process hearing. Act before the deadline: you can pay, set up a payment plan, request a hearing or ask about other collection options." }, "name" : "What is a CP90 or CP297 final notice of intent to levy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A CP161 or LT16 notice indicates that the IRS believes you have unpaid taxes. The notice includes a calculation of the amount owed. You should compare it to your records and respond if you disagree." }, "name" : "What does a CP161 or LT16 unpaid taxes notice mean?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A CP3219N notice is sent when the IRS has not received your return and is proposing a deficiency assessment. A CP12 notice indicates the IRS corrected one or more issues on your filed return, which may change your refund or balance due." }, "name" : "What are CP3219N and CP12 deficiency or adjustment notices?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "LT11 and L1058 notices are final warnings before the IRS levies assets. They explain the overdue balance and give you the right to request a hearing before enforcement actions begin." }, "name" : "What is an LT11 or L1058 Notice to Pay Overdue Taxes?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "CP501 and CP502 notices are early reminders that you owe taxes. The CP501 is the first notice, and the CP502 serves as a follow-up when no action is taken." }, "name" : "What do CP501 and CP502 balances due notices tell me?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A CP503 is the second reminder that you have an unpaid balance. It isn’t a levy notice, but it gives you another chance to pay, dispute or arrange a payment plan before collection escalates." }, "name" : "What is a CP503 second reminder notice?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A CP504 is a Notice of Intent to Levy. It lets the IRS take your state tax refund and warns that a levy on other property is coming. Before levying wages, bank accounts or Social Security, the IRS generally sends a final notice, such as an LT11 or Letter 1058, with hearing rights." }, "name" : "What is a CP504 notice of intent to levy?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "To understand an IRS letter, identify the notice number, tax year involved, changes the IRS made or proposes, and what actions are required. Instructions for responding are included in the notice." }, "name" : "How can I better understand letters from the IRS?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Look for the notice number, date, tax period, balance due or refund, deadlines, and required documentation or actions. Each letter outlines specific steps you must take." }, "name" : "What key information should I look for in an IRS letter?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "IRS letters typically include a header, summary of changes, an explanation section, and instructions for responding, paying, disputing, or requesting a payment plan." }, "name" : "What are the different sections of an IRS letter?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Open the letter immediately, read it carefully, compare the information with your tax return, and follow the instructions before the deadline. Ignoring a notice can lead to penalties or enforcement actions." }, "name" : "What should I do when I receive an IRS letter?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Review the notice in full, verify the information, note required actions and deadlines, and keep a copy for your records. Depending on the notice, you may need to pay, correct information, or request a payment arrangement." }, "name" : "What steps should I take upon receiving IRS correspondence?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Respond as soon as possible and always before any IRS deadline. If you agree with the notice, pay promptly. If you disagree, follow instructions for disputing or contacting the IRS." }, "name" : "When and how should I respond to IRS letters?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Seek professional help if you do not understand the notice, cannot pay the balance, are facing an audit or levy, or need assistance disputing IRS findings." }, "name" : "When should I seek professional advice about an IRS letter?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "A tax professional can interpret complex notices, prepare documentation, negotiate penalty reduction, set up payment plans, and prevent missteps that could worsen your situation." }, "name" : "What are the benefits of professional guidance in responding to IRS letters?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "CMP tax professionals can review your IRS letter, explain what it means, assist with disputes, audits, payment plans, and appeals, and help you resolve issues efficiently." }, "name" : "How can CMP tax professionals help with IRS letters?" } ], "headline" : "Why Would the IRS Send Me a Letter? What Do They Mean?", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 1000, "url" : "https://blog.cmp.cpa/hs-fs/hubfs/Why%20Would%20the%20IRS%20Send%20Me%20a%20Letter.jpg?width=2000&height=1000&name=Why+Would+the+IRS+Send+Me+a+Letter.jpg", "width" : 2000 }, "inLanguage" : "en", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.cmp.cpa/why-would-the-irs-send-me-a-letter", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 86, "url" : "https://cmp.cpa/wp-content/uploads/CMP-Logo.png", "width" : 406 }, "name" : "CMP" } } ```