IRS Notices & Letters
Did you receive an IRS letter or notice? Don’t panic too much about the letter, most of these letters come off in a harsh tone but can be resolved through a few steps. Below are some normal IRS letters that the IRS sends. Each notification contains a description of what the letter is for and what are the appropriate actions to take in order to respond and resolve the problem the letter is addressing. Although the IRS is systematic, sometimes notices can be skipped if you have had problems in the past and for other reasons.
Table of Contents
- CP 11: Changes to Tax Return
- CP 22A: Data Processing Adjustment Notices
- CP 22E: Examination Adjustment Notice
- CP 23 – Estimated Tax Discrepancy
- CP 88 – Delinquent Return Refund Hold
- CP 90/CP 297/CP 297A – Notice of Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing
- CP 91/ CP 298 – Final Notice Before Levy on Social Security Benefits
- CP 161 – Request for Payment or Notice of Unpaid Balance
- CP 14 – Balance Due
- CP 501 – Reminder Notice, Balance Due
- CP 503 – Second Request Notice, Balance Due
- CP 504 – Final Notice, Balance Due
- LT11 or L1058 – Final Notice of Intent to Levy
- CP 523 – Notice of Default on Installment Agreement
Need Tax Help?
CP11 – Changes to Tax Return
This notice is sent to a taxpayer to show that there was a change made to the tax return and that change resulted in a balance being due to the IRS.
A CP 11 notice is meant to tell you that changes were made to your return during processing. This has led to a balance being due on your account. The IRS sends this as a first reminder of a balance due.
What Should I Do If I Received a CP-11 Notice?
The first thing you should consider doing is paying the money that is due. The IRS will provide you with a slip and an envelope for remitting payment.
How Long Can I Wait to Respond?
Upon receiving a CP 11 notice you do not want to wait long. It is best to pay the IRS as soon as possible as to resolve your account.
What If I Can’t Pay in Full?
If you cannot pay the balance due in full it is important to contact the IRS at the number provided on the notice. Those who do not contact the IRS to setup other arrangements and decide not to pay may eventually be served with a Notice of Federal Tax Lien. Even if you do not agree with the notice it is your responsibility to contact the IRS.
CP 22A – Data Processing Adjustment Notices, Balance Due of $5 or More
This letter is sent to a taxpayer when a data processing adjustment has resulted in a balance being due on the account.
The CP 22A notice is sent to a taxpayer when a data processing adjustment has resulted in a balance being due on the account.
What Is The Next Step With A CP 22A?
The first step to take is paying the amount due as it shows on the notice. An envelope is included so you can mail your payment promptly and to the proper address without worry. It is important to include the bottom portion of the CP 22A notice to ensure that the money is put towards your account as soon as possible.
How Much Time Do I Have To Respond With CP 22A?
The quicker the better. If you receive a CP 22A notice you should either pay the amount in full, or contact the IRS to discuss your payment options or overall situation.
What If I Am Unable or Can’t Pay Taxes Owed?
If you cannot afford to pay the balance due in full you should call the IRS at the number included on the CP 22A notice to see if you qualify for an installment agreement. Those who do not pay or make an attempt at setting up other arrangements will find themselves in trouble with the IRS. For instance, non-payment may result in IRS filing a Notice of Federal Tax Lien. As you know, this notice is much more serious than a simple CP 22A.
Who Can I Call To Discuss CP 22A?
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the IRS via the number printed on your notice or call 1-800-928-5035.
What If I Don’t Agree With the CP 22A Notice That I Received?
It is important to immediately contact the IRS via telephone if you do not agree with the CP 22A notice. Do not assume that you can cutoff all correspondence because you don’t agree or feel that there was a mistake. You need to clarify your situation with the IRS.
CP 22E – Examination Adjustment Notice, Balance Due
This notice is sent when an exam tax adjustment was made to your account which resulted in a balance of $5 or more.
The CP 22E notice is sent when an exam tax adjustment was made to your account which resulted in a balance of $5 or more.
What Is The Next Step With A CP 22E Notice?
The notice will show how much money you owe. If you pay this amount in full you do not have to do anything else. Payment can be sent in the enclosed envelope along with the bottom portion of the statement to ensure that it is credited to your account.
When Should I Reply To CP 22E IRS Notice?
You should either pay the balance due or call the IRS to discuss your situation as soon as you receive the notice in the mail.
What If I Am Unable or Can’t Pay Taxes Owed?
If you cannot afford to pay you can call the number located on the CP 22E notice to setup an installment agreement or some other form of tax settlement. Those who do not make any effort to pay the balance due may eventually receive a Notice of Federal Tax Lien.
Who Can I Call to Discuss the CP 22E Notice?
The number located on the top of the notice can be called if you have any questions regarding your CP 22E.
For more trustworthy assistance, reach out to us by calling the number at the top of the page or by filling out the form on the right.
What If I Am In Disagreement With the CP 22E Notice?
If you do not agree with the adjustment made to your account you should contact the proper party at the number listed. There may be a good reason for an error. At the very least you can discuss your situation as well as your options for paying the balance due.
CP 23 – Estimated Tax Discrepancy, Balance Due
If you receive this letter from the IRS it is to tell you that there is a difference between the amount of money posted to your account and the amount of Estimated Tax Payments that were claimed on your tax return.
If you receive a CP 23 notice it is to tell you that there is a difference between the amount of money posted to your account and the amount of Estimated Tax Payments that were claimed on your tax return. The IRS may also notify you of corrections that were made. Lastly, a CP 23 will notify you of the balance that is currently due.
What Should I Do Next With A CP 23 Letter?
If you feel that the information is correct on the CP 23 notice you should pay the IRS right away. An envelope is enclosed. All you have to include is your payment as well as the bottom portion of the notice to ensure that the money is quickly credited to your account.
How Long Do I Have To Respond To A CP 23 Notice?
You should not delay in paying the balance due as outlined on the CP 23. You owe this money, and it should be sent to the IRS as soon as possible.
What If I Don’t or Can’t Pay Federal Taxes?
If you owe more than you can afford to pay you should contact the IRS to setup a payment plan. This may be necessary for large tax bills. Those who do not pay and do not contact the IRS may receive a Notice of Federal Tax Lien.
Who Should I Call To Discuss CP 23?
If you have any questions about your CP 23 notice you should contact the IRS. The best number to call is located on the notice or you can reach out to us for a free tax consultation by filing out the form on the right or calling the number above.
If I Don’t Agree With The IRS Regarding CP 23 What Should I Do?
You can call the IRS to ask any questions or to discuss your disagreement with the notice.
CP 88 – Delinquent Return Refund Hold
The IRS has the right to hold your refund. This notice is sent to tell you that your refund is being held because you did not file a tax return in a previous year. Even if you are due a refund, you are not entitled to receive it until you have filed all necessary returns.
The IRS has the right to hold your refund. A CP 88 notice is sent to tell you that your refund is being held because you did not file a tax return in a previous year. Even if you are due a refund, you are not entitled to receive it until you have filed all necessary returns.
I Received A CP 88 Letter. What Now?
If you want to receive your refund you need to file the missing returns at the first available opportunity. Those who feel that they do not need to file need to provide the IRS with an explanation.
When Should I Respond to the IRS Regarding CP 88?
You do not have to respond within a given period of time. Simply put, if you don’t submit the missing return the IRS is not going to send your refund. It would be in your best interest to respond as soon as possible so you can receive the money that is owed to you.
Who Should I Call To Discuss CP 88?
If you have any questions regarding the CP 88 you can contact the IRS at the number listed on the notice. We encourage you to call us for a free tax analysis to give you guidance as you may need services.
What If I Disagree With the IRS CP 88 Letter I Received?
You may disagree with the information provided on the CP 88. For instance, you may feel that you sent all past returns. If you disagree you should contact the IRS to discuss your situation and to find a resolution.
CP 90/CP 297/CP 297A – Notice of Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing
This letter is sent to let you know of the intent to levy federal payments that are due to you. This can include a salary, Social Security benefits, or OPM retirement benefits. There are also other items that are subject to levy and can be included in a CP 90/CP 297 notice such as real estate, bank accounts, car, business assets, commissions, and wages.
A CP 90/CP 297 notice is sent to let you know of the intent to levy federal payments that are due to you. This can include a salary, Social Security benefits, or OPM retirement benefits. There are also other items that are subject to levy and can be included in a CP 90/CP 297 notice such as real estate, bank accounts, car, business assets, commissions, and wages.
The CP 297A is more serious than the CP 90/CP 297 as it is the notice that says a levy has been issued on such things as contractor payments if operate a business, employee travel costs, Federal reimbursements and retirement funds.
Next Steps With CP 90, CP 297 or CP 297A?
If you receive any of these notices the first thing that you should think about is paying the money that is being requested. This is the quickest way to either avoid a levy being issued, or to have this released. An envelope is enclosed as to make it easy for you to send the payment that is due.
If I Received A CP 90, CP 297 or CP 297A When Should I Respond To IRS?
You should never wait to respond to a CP 90/CP 297/CP 297A notice. These notices are important, and will have great impact on your life. Even if you do not plan on paying the money you need to contact the IRS to discuss your situations and options.
What If I Can’t or Don’t Want To Pay Federal Taxes Assessed or Owed?
If you cannot pay the full amount you should talk to the IRS about a payment plan. Those who do not make any attempt to deal with a CP 90/CP 297/CP 297A notice will face ongoing levies, as well as the possibility of a tax lien.
Who Can I Talk to To Discuss CP 90/CP 297/CP 297A?
Any questions regarding a notice should be directed to the IRS at the number listed on your documentation. Moreover, you can also call 1-800-928-5035 or use the form on the right for a free tax analysis and consultation.
What If I Think the IRS Made A Mistake Sending Me CP 90/CP 297/CP 297A?
You have the right to file a request for an appeals hearing as long as you do so within 30 days of receiving the notice.
CP 91/ CP 298 – Final Notice Before Levy on Social Security Benefits
This notice is sent to inform the taxpayer that the IRS intends to levy their social security benefits. If the right actions are not taken the IRS will take up to 15% of social security benefits that the taxpayer receives.
A CP 91 or CP 298 notice is sent to let you know that the IRS plans on placing a levy on 15 percent of your social security benefits due to an outstanding balance on your account.
What Should I Do Receiving a CP 91 / 298 notice?
To avoid this levy, you should pay the balance due as it is outlined on the CP 91. Be sure to mail your check and bottom portion of the notice in the envelope provided to ensure that it gets to the right place and is credited to your account.
When Should I Respond to the IRS Regarding CP 91 / CP 298?
From the day you receive a CP 91 notice you have 30 days to either pay or contact the IRS. If you wait longer than this a levy of your social security benefits will be imposed. There is no good reason to wait after receiving a CP 91. If you do, the IRS will not hesitate to move forward.
What If I Realize I Cannot Pay or Don’t Want To Pay IRS Back Taxes?
If you cannot pay your account balance in full you should contact the IRS at the number provided to discuss other arrangements. This can include an offer in compromise, entering into an installment agreement or arranging some other form of tax settlement. Not paying or contacting the IRS will result in a levy against your benefits in order to collect the money immediately.
You have the right to call the IRS if you do not agree with the CP 91 notice. If you still don’t get satisfaction you have the right to request an appeal.
CP 161 – Request for Payment or Notice of Unpaid Balance, Balance Due
This notice shows underpaid taxes. You will also be sent details on how much tax you reported paying, as well as any credits that have been applied to your account.
Many people believe that a CP 161 notice is sent to notify them of a math error; this is not true. This notice shows underpaid taxes. You will also be sent details on how much tax you reported paying, as well as any credits that have been applied to your account.
What Should I Do Next With CP-161?
It is important to check the payments that were posted with your records. You may find a misapplied payment which is the reason for the problem. If you find an error you need to notify the IRS so they can search for the payment that is inaccurate. Once the payment is found and applied to your account for the proper amount, any penalties and interest due to the underpayment will be removed.
If everything checks out with your records you should pay the IRS the amount due. A due date will be listed. You must pay by this date to avoid penalties and interest.
How Much Time Do I Have To Respond With at CP-161 Letter?
You should pay the proper amount by the due date. This will ensure that you avoid owing additional money in penalties and interest. It is a good idea always to take advantage of our free tax analysis where we can give you some of your possible options at no charge.
What If I Can’t Pay or Don’t Pay My Taxes?
If you cannot pay in full you need to setup an installment agreement. Those who do not contact the IRS and do not pay in full will be charged with penalties and interest until the payment is received.
What If I Don’t Agree With The CP-161 Notice That I Received?
If you do not agree with the information outlined on the CP 161 notice you can call the IRS. In most cases they will be able to help resolve the matter. They can assist with everything from a missing payment to a discrepancy in records. Generally speaking, this situation can be resolved quickly and efficiently by either paying what you owe or contacting the IRS to address the problem.
CP 14 – Balance Due
This notice is sent to a taxpayer to show the amount of underpaid tax or a balance in terms of taxes owed. There is a section on the form that details the tax you reported, the credits that were applied, and the amount of the underpayment.
A CP 14 notice is sent to a taxpayer to show the amount of underpaid tax for a certain year indicated according to IRS records. Usually, 60 days after you file your tax return with a balance, you will receive this letter which detail the tax you reported, credits, and the resulting underpayment.
What Should I Do Next with CP-14?
Once you receive a CP 14, you need to take immediate action to find out if possibly a payment was misplaced in the IRS system. The IRS states that this is one of the major causes that taxpayers receive this letter so be sure to make sure all your payments were applied. If a payment was not correct, provide the check number, or other payment information in order to help the IRS find it and credit it to your account. If this is the case, penalties and interest that resulted from the mix up, normally will be negated.
Contrastingly, if everything checks out you and you simply owe taxes, pay the money owed by the due date that is listed on the notice. Those who do not pay by the due date will be charged penalties and interest. If you do not have the money to pay the full amount due you can request an installment agreement which allows you to pay over the course of several months.
What If I Don’t Agree With the CP 14 Notice That I Received?
If you do not agree with the notice you can call the number listed. Of course, why you disagree with the notice has a lot to do with the action that you can take. A CP 14 is sent for a variety of reasons. In most cases you can either call the IRS or mail them the proper information needed to fix the issue.
Generally speaking, dealing with a CP 14 is relatively easy. Even though it may be a minor inconvenience, as long as you respond quickly your account will be back in good standing soon enough.
CP 501 – Reminder Notice, Balance Due
This IRS letter is one of the most simple and straightforward and typically follows CP-14. This is sent to notify you of a balance due. This is the second notice that the IRS sends to let you know about the money you owe.
A CP 501 notice is one of the most simple and straightforward letters. This is sent to notify you of a balance due. This is the first notice that the IRS sends to let you know about the money you owe.
What Is The Next Step With A CP 501 Notice?
Following with the simplicity of the notice, your next step should be to pay the balance due. Mail a check in the enclosed envelope along with the bottom portion of the statement. As soon as the money is posted, your balance will be wiped out.
When Should I Respond to the 501 Tax Notice or the IRS?
You should not delay in paying your balance. It is important to either send payment in full, or contact the IRS to discuss other options.
What If I Am Unable or Can’t Pay The Taxes Associated With A CP 501?
If you cannot pay your balance you may be able to apply for an installment agreement or settle your back taxes if your financial situation is really bad. Those who don’t pay may receive a Notice of Federal Tax Lien. This lien can be used to legally claim property to pay the taxes owed.
Who Should I Call To Discuss CP 501?
There is a number listed on the CP 501 notice that can be called if you have any questions regarding your account, payment options, etc.
Feel free to take advantage for a free tax analysis with us by calling the number at to the top of the page.
What If I Disagree With The Reasoning Behind CP 501?
If you disagree with the CP 501 notice or the information provide, contact the IRS immediately. In most cases this will result in a more clear understanding of your position and what you need to do.
CP 503 – Second Request Notice, Balance Due
This notice is sent to inform you that a balance is due on your account. It is the second request notice that is sent by the IRS for an unpaid balance. If you receive a CP 503 notice, in most cases it means that you did not respond to the CP 501 or take the proper action.
A CP 503 is sent to inform you that a balance is due on your account and that you have ten days to pay the balance due. It is the third request notice that is sent by the IRS for an unpaid balance. The notice you received before this is likely the CP 501 notice. If you receive a CP 503 notice it means that you did not respond to the first one or take the proper action.
Next Step With A CP 503?
You should pay the unpaid balance as outlined on your notice. You can use the enclosed envelope while also attaching the bottom portion of the statement to ensure that your account is credited.
When Should I Respond To A CP 503 Notice or Letter?
While there is no due date on a CP 503 notice you need to pay the balance as soon as possible or within 10 days you will incur additional penalties and interest. Waiting can result in additional notices.
If I Am Unable or Not Capable of Paying IRS Taxes What Should I Do?
Those who cannot pay the entire balance due should call the IRS to setup an IRS installment agreement. If you cannot pay the required payments you may be about to settle your taxes owed. If you don’t pay or contact the IRS you may receive a Notice of Federal Tax Lien. This lien allows the IRS to legally claim your property as a way of receiving what is owed.
Who Should or Can I Call To Discuss IRS Notice CP 503?
If you have questions or a problem with the notice you can call the IRS at the number listed.
Or you can call the number at the top of this page to speak with a tax specialist about resolving your tax situation.
What If I Don’t Concur With the IRS Regarding the CP 503 Notice They Sent?
If you do not agree with the CP 503 notice it is important to contact the IRS as soon as possible to resolve the situation. In most cases a simple solution is found.
CP 504 – Final Notice, Balance Due
This letter is a final notice of a balance that is due on your account. This is usually the fourth notice that is sent, and will tell you that a levy will be issued against your state tax refund. It may also include details stating that the IRS plans to search for other assets on which a levy can be placed. Additionally, a Federal Tax Lien may also be filed if you do not pay at once.
The CP 504 is a final notice of a balance that is due on your account. This is usually the fourth notice that is sent, and will tell you that a levy will be issued against your state tax refund. It may also include details stating that the IRS plans to search for other assets on which a levy can be placed. Additionally, a Federal Tax Lien may also be filed if you do not pay at once.
Next Step With CP 504 IRS Letter?
Since you have already ignored several notices you need to pay the balance due as soon as possible. This can help you avoid a levy or lien, or have it removed if the IRS has already moved forward.
When Should I Get Back To The IRS Regarding this CP 504 Notice?
If you receive a CP 504 notice you do not have any time to waste. This notice means that the IRS is serious about collecting the money that you owe. It would be in your best interest to pay or setup an installment agreement as soon as possible.
What If I Don’t Pay or Respond to the CP 504 Notice?
If you ignore a CP 504 notice the IRS will continue to move forward with the levy and/or lien process. They cannot levy you at this point because they will first send a formal letter (L1058 or LT11) stating their Intent to Levy your wages, bank accounts, or other personal property. This will make your situation worse as you not only owe money, but the IRS has decided to take it however possible.
Who Should I Discuss CP 504 Letter With?
Any questions about a CP 504 can be directed to the IRS at the number listed on the notice.
If you need help resolving your problem because you cannot pay and either need to setup a payment plan or use some other form of tax settlement, call the number at the top of the page or fill out the form on your right.
What If I Feel the IRS is Wrong By Sending The the 504 Notice?
You may not agree with receiving a CP 504 notice. In this case, you should call the IRS immediately to let them know your stance and why you feel there is an error. You would be better off discussing your situation with the IRS before you receive a CP 504 notice, though.
LT 11 or L 1058 – Final Notice of Intent to Levy
This formal letter is normally sent a few weeks after you fail to respond and address CP 504 by paying the taxes you owe or by setting up a payment agreement with the IRS. It can be from an IRS office in the area. Typically, you have 30 days (from the data of the letter) to resolve the situation before the IRS levies your bank account(s), wages, and other assets.
IRS Letter 1058 or L 1058 / LT 11 is a final notice from the Internal Revenue Service (sent certified) letting you know that you still have a balance and if you do not resolve it then they will attempt to levy your wages, bank account, and/or other assets within 30 days. This letter is more formal than other notices and will tell you that the IRS will also be searching for other assets you have that they can levy. Normally, a CP 504 precedes this letter.
How to React to L 1058 / LT 11 IRS Letter?
Either pay the balance you owe, or contact the IRS (using the phone number on the notice) to setup an IRS Installment Agreement or some type of payment plan. This can help you prevent an IRS tax levy or lien (if not filed yet).
When Should I Get Back To The IRS Regarding IRS Letter 1058?
Immediately. It would be in your best interest to pay or setup an installment agreement as soon as possible in order to reduce penalties and get your account in good standing.
What If I Don’t Pay or Reply to IRS Letter 1058 / LT 11?
If you decide to ignore this notice, then the IRS after 30 days can levy your bank account, wages (smaller paychecks), your state tax refund, and even file a Notice of a Federal Tax Lien.
Who Should I Talk to Regarding this Notice?
You can speak with a tax professional such as a CPA, Enrolled Agent, or Tax Attorney regarding this notice before contacting the IRS if you prefer. Alternatively, you can contact the IRS directly if you cannot pay the amount in full and they will be more than happy to setup a payment agreement that works for you and them. If your financial situation warrants, you may be even able to consider alternative resolution mechanisms with the help of a tax professional.
I Disagree With the Notice. What Are My Next Steps?
If you do not thing the notice is correct, you have the right to an appeal. If you have appealed with previous letters, normally those appeals are not as formal as this appeal. If you just setup an IRS Installment Agreement and you received this notice, it is best to call the IRS right away in order to fix your account or resolve the situation. Alternatively, speak with a tax professional who can help resolve your tax problems.
CP 523 – Notice of Default on Installment Agreement
When you setup an installment agreement with the IRS you promise to pay a particular amount of money every month. A CP 523 notice is sent if the IRS is going to cancel your installment agreement. It will include information for the reason of termination. Common reasons include: you missed a payment, you did not file your tax return, and/or you have added a new balance due to the IRS.
When you setup an installment agreement with the IRS you promise to pay a particular amount of money every month. A CP 523 notice is sent if the IRS is going to cancel or terminate your installment agreement. It will include information for the reason of termination. Common reasons include: you missed a payment, you did not file a tax return, and/or you have added a new balance due to the IRS.
What Are the Next Steps with IRS Notice CP 523?
If you do not want your installment agreement to be terminated you need to call the number on the notice and explain your situation. You must also tell the IRS what you will do to fix things.
When Should I Respond To The IRS Regarding CP 523?
The longer you wait to respond the less chance you have of the IRS allowing you to keep your installment agreement active. You have 30 days from receiving a CP 523 notice to contact the IRS.
What If CP 523 Was Erroneously Sent?
If you feel that your installment agreement is being canceled without reason you should contact the IRS. If you do not get any satisfaction it is within your rights to file an appeal.