Get a Letter or Notice From the IRS?

The IRS mails letters or notices to taxpayers for a variety of reasons including if the tax payer has a balance due, or if the agency has a question about their tax return.

If you receive a letter or notice from the IRS, do not ignore it. Most IRS letters and notices are about federal tax returns or tax accounts.

But don’t panic! The IRS and its authorized private collection agencies generally contact taxpayers by mail. Most of the time, all the taxpayer needs to do is read the letter carefully and take the appropriate action. The notice or letter will explain the reason for the contact and gives instructions on what to do.

Make sure to put the letter in a safe place, or scan it. It’s important to keep a copy of all notices or letters with other tax records. Taxpayers may need these documents later.

And finally, make sure to avoid scams. Remember that the IRS will never contact a taxpayer using social media or text message. The first contact from the IRS usually comes in the mail. Taxpayers who are unsure if they owe money to the IRS can view their tax account information on IRS.gov.

Give our office a call (919-465-1265) if you have any questions. In the meantime, check out this Do’s and Don’ts List from the IRS for taxpayers who receive a letter or notice in the mail.