What To Do When You Receive An IRS Notice

Receiving an IRS notice does not always mean something is wrong, but it should never be ignored. The right response depends on the tax year, the issue, the deadline, and whether the IRS is asking for information, proposing a change, or requesting payment.

Step 1: Read The Notice Completely

Identify the notice number, tax year, amount in question, deadline, and response instructions. Keep the envelope and every page of the notice. The IRS provides general notice guidance at IRS.gov .

Step 2: Compare The Notice With Your Records

Pull the tax return, payment records, W-2s, 1099s, K-1s, and any documents related to the issue. Many notices can be narrowed by comparing what was filed with what the IRS says it has on record.

Step 3: Do Not Miss The Deadline

Some notices require a response by a specific date. Missing that date can reduce available options or allow the IRS process to continue without your side of the facts.

Step 4: Decide Whether Representation Is Needed

A simple correction may not require representation. A proposed assessment, audit, collection issue, unresolved filing problem, lien, levy, or repeated correspondence may deserve CPA review before responding.

For related service information, see IRS Representation and Tax Resolution. You can also contact Eric to discuss the notice.

This article is general information, not individualized tax advice. Complex tax decisions should be reviewed with a qualified tax professional who understands the facts, documents, deadlines, and risk involved.

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This article is general information, not individualized tax advice. Tax decisions should be reviewed against the taxpayer’s facts, documents, deadlines, and applicable law.

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