Notices & next steps3 min read
Your first IRS tax notice: a reading order
Read the identification, tax year, amount and requested response before deciding what to do.
Read the guide18 guides · Read at your own pace
The tax guide library
A practical reading collection for individuals reading an IRS notice for the first time. Start with the question closest to yours.
Records & preparation3 min read
Reading a CP14 balance-due notice
Compare the stated amount with the return you filed and payments you made.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
When IRS reminder letters keep arriving
Organize reminders by tax period and compare each with the latest account record.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
CP504: identify the next action promptly
Read the notice-specific collection warning and response instructions without postponing the issue.
Read the guideNotices & next steps3 min read
A final levy notice and hearing-rights checklist
Locate the hearing language, date and response address on a final levy notice.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Check whether a tax letter is genuine
Use the IRS notice search and independently verified IRS channels to check a suspicious letter.
Read the guideNotices & next steps3 min read
Build a response calendar from the actual notice
Record the response date, delivery method and supporting-document tasks on one calendar.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Agreeing, disagreeing or needing more information
Separate a factual dispute from an inability to pay a correct bill.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Separate tax, penalties and interest on a notice
Create a component-by-component worksheet before asking which relief may apply.
Read the guideUnderstanding your options3 min read
A payment is missing from your notice
Reconcile the amount, date, tax type and period on your payment confirmation.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Make an inventory when several years show balances
List each tax year and its filing, assessment, payment and notice status.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
When the IRS says it changed your return
Compare the changed line with your filed copy and the explanation supplied.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Your refund was applied to an older balance
Match the refund credit to the tax period and the notice explaining the application.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Keep tax correspondence reachable after a move
Check the IRS address on file and organize notices forwarded from an old address.
Read the guideNotices & next steps3 min read
Prepare for a call about an IRS letter
Write the notice number, tax period and one clear question before calling.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Keep a useful IRS correspondence log
Track who was contacted, what was sent and which next step was confirmed.
Read the guideRecords & preparation3 min read
Send notice evidence through the right channel
Match each document to the notice instruction and retain a legible copy.
Read the guideNotices & next steps3 min read
Accessible formats and help reading tax notices
Identify whether an accessible notice format or language assistance would help you respond.
Read the guide