Each year, the IRS sends millions of letters and notices to taxpayers for a variety of reasons. The IRS says don’t panic; most of the letters require a simple response.
There are many reasons why the IRS sends correspondence. If you receive an IRS notice, it will typically cover a very specific issue about your account or tax return. Notices may require payment, notify you of changes to your account or ask you to provide more information.
Each notice offers specific instructions on what you need to do to satisfy the inquiry.
If you receive a notice advising you that the IRS has corrected your tax return, you should review the correspondence and compare it with the information on your return.
If taxpayers agree with the correction to their account, then usually no reply is necessary unless a payment is due or the notice directs otherwise.
If taxpayers do not agree with the correction the IRS made, it is important that they respond as requested. Taxpayers should send a written explanation of why they disagree. They should include any information and documents they want the IRS to consider with their response. Taxpayers should mail their reply with the bottom tear-off portion of the IRS letter to the address shown in the upper left-hand corner of the notice. they should allow at least 30 days for a response.
Taxpayers should be able to resolve most notices that you receive without calling or visiting an IRS office. If taxpayers do have questions, call the telephone number in the upper right-hand corner of the notice. They are advised to have a copy of their tax return and their notice with them when they call.
Remember to keep copies of any notices you receive with your other income tax records.
The IRS sends notices and letters by mail. The agency never contacts taxpayers about their tax account or tax return by e-mail.
For more information about IRS notices and bills, visit IRS.gov. Click on the link ‘Responding to a Notice’ at the bottom left of the home page.