Information courtesy of IRS

There are many reasons the IRS sends taxpayers letters and notices. Many of these have a simple solution.

Below is a list of reasons you may receive a notice from the IRS:

  1. A notice may request payment, notify you of account changes, or request additional information. A notice normally covers a very specific issue about your account or tax return.
  2. Each letter/notice will provide instructions on what action needs to be taken.
  3. If you receive a correction notice, review the correspondence and compare it with the information on your tax return.
  4. If you agree with the correction to your account, then usually no reply is needed unless a payment is due or the notice directs otherwise.
  5. If you do not agree with the correction the IRS made, it is important to respond as requested. You should send a written explanation of why you disagree and include any documents and information you want the IRS to consider along with the bottom tear-off portion of the notice. Mail the information to the IRS address shown in the upper left of the notice. Allow at least 30 days for a response.
  6. Most correspondence can be handled without calling or visiting an IRS office.  If you have questions call the telephone number in the upper right of the notice.
  7. It’s important to keep copies of any correspondence with your records.
  8. IRS notices and letters are sent by mail. The IRS does not correspond by email about taxpayer accounts or tax returns.

Keep these important points from the IRS in mind if you should receive a notice or letter. And remember, don’t panic!