What taxpayers should do if they get a letter or notice from the IRS
Your notice or letter will explain the reason for the contact and give you instructions on how to handle the issue. If you agree with the information, there is no need to contact the IRS. Note: As explained on the IRS website, you can find the notice (CP) or letter (LTR) number on either the top or the bottom right-hand corner of your correspondence.
Every year the IRS mails letters or notices to taxpayers for many different reasons
- You have a balance due.
- You are due a larger or smaller refund.
- We have a question about your tax return.
- We need to verify your identity.
- We need additional information.
- We changed your return.
- We need to notify you of delays in processing your 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.
- Don’t panic – The IRS and its authorized private collection agencies do send letters by mail.
- Don’t reply unless instructed to do so – Taxpayers who owe should reply with a payment.
- Do take timely action – Acting timely could minimize additional interest and penalty charges.
- Do 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.
- Do respond to a disputed notice – If a taxpayer doesn’t agree with the IRS, they should mail a letter explaining why they dispute the notice.
- Do remember there is usually no need to call the IRS – The taxpayer should have a copy of their tax return and letter when calling the agency.
- Do avoid scams – The IRS will never contact a taxpayer using social media or text message.
Each notice or letter contains a lot of valuable information, so it’s very important that you read it carefully. If the IRS changed your tax return, compare the information they provided in the notice or letter with the information in your original return, explained Daniel Ahart, chief tax officer at the tax preparation company Daniel Ahart Tax Service®
Again, if you need more time to file, you can easily file your extension online with Daniel Ahart Tax Service® before the April 15 deadline. As long as your electronic extension is submitted by midnight, or your letter is postmarked by that date, your extension should be good. Schedule a consultation with your tax experts now.
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