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    • IRS Notices
    • Do You Owe Back Taxes?
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  • Home
  • IRS Notices
  • Do You Owe Back Taxes?
  • IRS Payment Plans
  • Knowledge Center

What to Do If You Receive an IRS Notice

1. Read the Notice Carefully

1. Read the Notice Carefully

1. Read the Notice Carefully

 

IRS notices explain:

  • why the IRS is contacting you 
  • what information they need 
  • what action you may need to take
     

Many notices are informational, but some require a response.

Always review the notice carefully and keep a copy for your records.

2. Verify the Information

1. Read the Notice Carefully

1. Read the Notice Carefully

 

Compare the information in the notice with your tax return and financial records.

Look for things like:

  • incorrect income reporting 
  • missing forms 
  • calculation differences 
  • filing status issues
     

Sometimes notices are triggered by information mismatches from W-2s or 1099 forms.

3. Respond by the Deadline

1. Read the Notice Carefully

4. Keep Copies of Everything

 

Most IRS notices include a response deadline.

Responding on time helps prevent:

  • additional penalties 
  • interest charges 
  • further IRS collection actions
     

If you agree with the notice, follow the instructions provided. If you disagree, you may need to provide documentation or an explanation.

4. Keep Copies of Everything

5. Get Professional Help if Needed

4. Keep Copies of Everything

 Always keep copies of:

  • the IRS notice 
  • your response 
  • supporting documentation
     

Maintaining organized records can help if additional questions arise later.

5. Get Professional Help if Needed

5. Get Professional Help if Needed

5. Get Professional Help if Needed

Some IRS notices are simple, but others may involve complex issues such as:

  • back taxes
  • unfiled returns 
  • penalties and interest 
  • payment arrangements
     

If you are unsure how to respond, speaking with a tax professional may help you understand your options and avoid costly mistakes.

Explore Common IRS Notices

5. Get Professional Help if Needed

5. Get Professional Help if Needed

Every IRS notice is different, and understanding the specific notice you received is the first step toward deciding what to do next.

Visit the Learning Center to learn what common IRS notices mean, why you received them, and the actions you may need to take.

Explore IRS Notice Articles

CP11 Notice

CP2000 Notice

CP11 Notice

 Changes to Your Tax Return — The IRS made changes to your return due to a math or processing error, resulting in a balance owed. Learn what changed, whether to agree or dispute, and how to respond. 

Learn more

CP14 Notice

CP2000 Notice

CP11 Notice

Balance Due, First Notice — The IRS is requesting payment for unpaid taxes. Learn why you received this notice, what happens if you ignore it, and the best options for resolving your balance. 

Learn More

CP2000 Notice

CP2000 Notice

CP2000 Notice

 Proposed Changes to Your Tax Return — Learn what this notice means, why you received it, and exactly what to do next 

Learn More

IRS Wage Levy

IRS Wage Levy

CP2000 Notice

  The IRS is seizing a portion of your paycheck every pay period. Learn how a wage levy works, how much they can take, and most importantly — how to stop it. 

Learn More

IRS Wage Levy

IRS Wage Levy

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