Dealing with IRS Notices: Expert Guidance for a Worry-Free Resolution

Opening your mailbox to find an envelope emblazoned with "Internal Revenue Service" can unsettle even the most diligent and organized filer. It's a natural reaction to feel a wave of anxiety upon receiving an IRS notice. However, the reality is that most IRS notices are not emergencies. They are often routine and manageable once you understand the situation.

Before you allow worry to disrupt your peace of mind, take a deep breath and follow these essential steps.

Understanding Why the IRS Sends Notices

The IRS sends out millions of notices each year, which typically fall into several broad categories:

  • Mismatch Detections
    The IRS may send a notice when a form (such as a 1099 or W-2) doesn't match the information on your tax return. Such letters are automated and not necessarily accusatory.

  • Request for Additional Information
    This could involve clarifying unclear figures, correcting a math error, or providing a missing document. These issues are generally minor.

  • Payment Discrepancies
    Instances where payments are delayed, misapplied, or inaccurately matched to your tax liabilities will prompt the IRS to send a notice.

  • Internal Adjustments
    Sometimes, the IRS adjusts refunds or recalibrates credits and deductions on its end, resulting in notices.

  • Identity Verification Requests
    As part of enhanced identity-theft prevention, the IRS might require confirmation of your identity. These are informational and not intended as threats.

Image 2

Consult Before You Respond

Prompt or unguided responses to IRS notices can complicate matters. Avoid the temptation to:

  • Immediately pay any displayed amount

  • Contact the IRS without professional advice

  • Send documents devoid of context

  • Ignore the notice, hoping it resolves itself

Discuss the notice with your financial advisor first. They can help determine:

  • The accuracy of the notice

  • If you owe anything and how much

  • If the IRS made an error

  • Whether a response is necessary and what documentation is needed

Decoding IRS Notice Codes

Each IRS notice comes with a unique code (e.g., CP2000, CP14, or CP75) that quickly identifies the issue.

CP2000 — Underreported Income
This suggests that the IRS believes your reported income was understated. Often, this results from vendor filing discrepancies.

CP14 — Balance Due
This indicates a perceived balance owed. It may reflect true debt, or be an accounting or timing error.

CP75 — Audit Documentation Request
The IRS seeks evidence regarding a credit or deduction. This is informational, not accusatory.

Letter 5071C — Identity Verification
This notice ensures identity authentication as part of fraud prevention efforts.

Image 1

Avoid Common Mistakes

A composed and accurate response facilitates a smooth resolution. Avoid these pitfalls:

  • Ignoring the notice. Timeliness is crucial.

  • Contacting the IRS without a prior review by a professional. This could lead to unintended agreements.

  • Automatically paying the stated amount. The figure might be incorrect.

  • Providing documents without thorough context. IRS interpretations are strictly literal.

  • Mistaking the notice for an audit. Many have no connection to audits.

Resolving Your IRS Notice

  1. Consult with a financial professional and present the notice.

  2. They will review your return and IRS records to identify the trigger.

  3. They assess IRS accuracy and decide if a response is necessary.

  4. If money is due, ensure the amount is accurate and applied to the correct year.

  5. When errors exist, professionals craft a detailed response with supporting documents.

Image 3

Professional Support is Invaluable

While IRS notices can feel daunting, seasoned professionals encounter them regularly and possess the expertise to:

  • Decode notice codes

  • Match correspondence to tax returns

  • Identify common IRS errors

  • Correctly allocate misapplied payments

  • Communicate effectively with the IRS

  • Determine when to escalate or ignore issues

You Are Not Alone

If you've received an IRS notice—whether it's confusing, unsettling, or unexpected—reach out to our firm. We will walk you through the process calmly, providing the clarity, support, and resolution you need.

Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .