Received an IRS Letter – What to Do First
Receiving an IRS letter can be stressful, but most IRS correspondence is routine and manageable if you respond correctly. Follow these steps to understand what you received and how to respond appropriately.
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Prepare My IRS ResponseFirst Steps (Within 24 Hours)
Do These Things Immediately
- Note the date you received the letter
- Identify the notice number (usually in the upper right corner, such as CP14, CP2000, LT11)
- Note the deadline for response (if any)
- Scan or photograph the entire letter for your records
- Read the letter completely at least twice
Identify the Notice Type
Most IRS letters fall into one of these categories:
- Balance Due Notices (CP14, CP501, CP503, CP504) – You owe money
- Income Mismatch Notices (CP2000) – Reported income does not match IRS records
- Levy Notices (CP90, LT11) – Final warning before collection action
- Audit/Examination Letters – Request for documentation or in-person meeting
- Informational Notices – No action required, for your records only
See all IRS letter types and what they mean →
Do NOT Do These Things
- Ignore the letter, even if you disagree with it
- Panic and immediately agree to pay without verifying the amount
- Call a random phone number claiming to be from the IRS
- Send money without understanding what you're paying for
- Miss the response deadline shown on the letter
Verify the Letter Is Legitimate
Before responding, confirm the letter is actually from the IRS:
- IRS letters arrive via US Postal Service regular mail
- The IRS does not initiate contact via email, text, or social media
- Check for an official notice number and your taxpayer identification number
- Compare the address to official IRS addresses (listed on IRS.gov)
- If unsure, call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 (do not call numbers listed in suspicious letters)
Next Steps Based on Notice Type
- Balance Due – Verify the amount, then pay or request a payment plan
- Income Mismatch – Compare to your tax return and gather supporting documents
- Levy Notice – Respond immediately (within 10-30 days) to prevent wage/bank levy
- Audit – Engage professional representation and prepare documentation
How to Respond
Most IRS notices require a written response sent via certified mail:
- Reference the notice number and tax year in your response
- State your position clearly (agree, disagree, or partial agreement)
- Attach only relevant supporting documents (copies, not originals)
- Send via certified mail with return receipt requested
- Keep copies of everything you send
Disclaimer: This tool provides informational assistance only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. For complex tax matters, consult a licensed tax professional or attorney.