Understanding Common IRS Notices

Received an IRS notice? Don't panic. Understanding what it means and how to respond properly can help you resolve the issue quickly and avoid further complications.

Why Would the IRS Send You a Letter?

The IRS sends correspondence for various reasons, and not all require immediate concern. Understanding the purpose helps you respond appropriately.

Balance Due Notifications

Informing you about outstanding tax obligations and payment requirements

Return Corrections

Notifying you of changes or errors found on your submitted tax return

Information Requests

Requesting additional documentation or clarification about your return

Identity Verification

Confirming your identity to protect against tax fraud and identity theft

Refund Adjustments

Explaining changes to your expected refund amount or processing delays

Response to Inquiries

Providing answers to questions or requests you submitted to the IRS

How to Handle an IRS Notice in 2025

When you receive IRS correspondence, follow these essential steps to protect your rights and resolve issues efficiently.

1

Stay Calm & Read Carefully

  • Don't panic - millions receive IRS letters annually
  • Review the entire notice thoroughly
  • Note the notice date and response deadline
  • Identify the specific issue being addressed
  • Understand what actions are required
2

Take Prompt Action

  • Most IRS notices have strict deadlines
  • Missing deadlines can result in additional penalties
  • Interest charges continue to accrue
  • You may lose certain appeal rights
  • Collection actions may be initiated
3

Maintain Proper Records

  • Keep copies of the original notice
  • Document your response and submission date
  • Retain all supporting documentation
  • Get proof of mailing for your response
  • Store records in an organized manner
4

Seek Professional Help When Needed

  • Contact a tax professional for complex issues
  • Get help if you've received multiple notices
  • Seek assistance for threatened collection actions
  • Consult experts if you disagree with IRS assessment
  • Don't wait if you've missed response deadlines

When to Seek Professional Help

Don't let IRS notices cause unnecessary stress. Our experienced tax professionals can help you understand your situation and develop an effective resolution strategy.

Contact us immediately if you:

Received multiple IRS notices
Face threatened collection action
Disagree with the IRS assessment
Received a large unexpected tax bill
Missed important response deadlines
Need help negotiating payment terms

Protect Yourself from IRS Scams

Be aware that scammers often impersonate the IRS. Know how to identify legitimate IRS communication.

Legitimate IRS Communication

  • • Always comes through U.S. Postal Service
  • • Never demands immediate payment by phone
  • • Provides official notice numbers and references
  • • Gives you appeal rights and deadlines
  • • Uses official IRS letterhead and formatting

IRS Will Never

  • • Initiate contact through email or social media
  • • Call demanding immediate payment
  • • Ask for credit card info over the phone
  • • Threaten immediate arrest
  • • Demand payment without prior written notice