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. Don’t panic! They say they’re there to help.
When a taxpayer receives mail from the IRS, they should:
1) 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 you need 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. By taking prompt action, you can minimize additional interest and penalty charges.
2) Review the information. If a letter is about a changed or corrected tax return, you should review the information and compare it with the original return. If you agree, make notes about the corrections on your personal copy of the tax return and keep it for your records. Typically, you will need to act only if you don't agree with the information, if the IRS asked for more information or if you have a balance due.
3) Take any requested action, including making a payment. The IRS and authorized private debt collection agencies do send letters by mail. You can also view digital copies of select IRS notices by logging into your IRS Online Account. The IRS offers several options to help taxpayers struggling to pay a tax bill.
4) Reply only if instructed to do so. You don't need to reply to a notice unless specifically told to do so. There is usually no need to call the IRS. If you do need to call the IRS, you should use the number in the upper right-hand corner of the notice and have a copy of your tax return and letter.
5) Let the IRS know of a disputed notice. If you don't agree with the IRS, you should follow the instructions in the notice to dispute what the notice says. You should include information and documents for the IRS to review when considering the dispute.
6) Keep the letter or notice for their records. You should keep notices or letters you receive from the IRS. These include adjustment notices when the IRS takes action on a taxpayer's account. You should keep records for three years from the date you filed the tax return.
Watch for scams
The IRS will never contact a taxpayer using social media or text message. The first contact from the IRS usually comes in the mail. If you are unsure whether you owe money to the IRS, you can view your tax account information on IRS.gov.