Nobody likes paying taxes, but just like eating our veggies, it’s a necessity and something we all grow used to in time. While the regular ins and outs of tax season may be somewhat stressful, an unexpected letter from the IRS can be panic-inducing. Fortunately, there’s no need to panic! The vast majority of IRS notices are easily resolved with a quick response and, as always, we’re here to help. Here are a few tips for the next time you receive that unexpected envelope from your buddies at the IRS. 

Read Carefully

First, take a deep breath. Not every notice from the IRS is cause for concern. In fact, most IRS notices are about federal tax returns or tax accounts. Your notice will likely be about changes to your account, taxes you owe, or a payment request. In some cases, the notice may ask you for more information about a specific issue. 

To make things easier, each notice comes with its own specific set of instructions. Be sure to read these instructions carefully for info on exactly what you need to do. 

If your notice mentions a change or correction to your tax return, carefully review the information provided and compare it with your original return.

Always keep copies of notices with your tax records – you may need them down the line! 

What if I Disagree with the IRS? 

If you agree with the statements or changes reported in the notice, there’s no need to respond unless the letter gives you other instructions or you need to make a payment. If you disagree with the notice, however, then it’s time to respond. 

To craft your response, simply: 

• Write a letter that explains why you disagree. 
• Include information and documents that back up reasons for disagreement. 
• Mail your response with the contact stub from the bottom of your notice to the address on the contact stub. 
• Allow 30(+/-) days for a response. 

In most cases, you won’t need to call or visit a walk-in center. 

For more information, check out “Responding to a Notice” on the IRS website, or take a look at Publication 594, the IRS Collection Process. 

Watch Out for Tax Scams

Remember that the IRS will always send letters and notices by mail. They will never try to contact you via email or social media to ask for personal or financial information. If something seems fishy, it probably is. 

Making Payments

If you need to make a payment to the IRS, simply visit IRS.gov/payments or use the IRS2GO app to make a payment with Direct Pay for free, or by debit or credit card. 

We hope these tips have you feeling a bit calmer when it comes to those pesky IRS notices. For extra advice, be sure to check out the IRS’s helpful Youtube video about IRS notices. And if you’re still feeling lost, remember, we’re here to help! Call us at 844-841-9857 or fill out our form for a free consultation to see how we can be of service.