The reason they send the letter by a certified carrier is to have legal proof that they sent you a notice on a certain date and to your address of record. In fact, all the taxing authorities have to do to meet their legal requirement is to prove they sent you a certified letter.
There are several reasons the IRS sends a letter certified mail: to notify you of back taxes owed; to inform you that a lien is being placed against you; to inform you that you're being audited. (Btw, the IRS will NEVER contact you by phone; that's a scam, pure and simple.)
The IRS is a government agency and the audit letter is sent by certified mail. It is important to respond within the time frame indicated. Consulting with a tax professional is recommended to understand the specific issues and provide accurate information.
Most IRS letters and notices are about federal tax returns or tax accounts. Each notice deals with a specific issue and includes any steps the taxpayer needs to take. A notice may reference changes to a taxpayer's account, taxes owed, a payment request or a specific issue on a tax return.
Certified Mail is often used for important legal or official purposes, such as IRS letters or court documents. If you have doubts about the sender's legitimacy or suspect fraudulent activity, consider contacting an expert in fraud prevention. You can also consult with your local Post Office.
An IRS audit letter typically contains the taxpayer's name, tax ID number, contact information, and a request for additional documentation to support claims on the tax return. It may also include the name of the IRS officer handling the case and invite the taxpayer to a meeting.
If the IRS decides that your return merits a second glance, you'll be issued a CP05 Notice. This notice lets you know that your return is being reviewed to verify any or all of the following: Your income. Your tax withholding.
Local municipalities will often use Certified Mail to send court summons and court judgments, subpoenas, and documents such as eviction notices from landlords.
Don't ignore it. Most IRS letters and notices are about federal tax returns or tax accounts. Each notice deals with a specific issue and includes specific instructions on what to do. Don't panic.
Many people get anxious if they receive a Certified Mail notice. Most of the time it is from a bill collector, but it's not always the case. Remember that Certified Mail can be sent by anyone. Jury duty isn't the best news to most people, but sometimes you will found out through Certified Mail.
Should your account be selected for audit, we will notify you by mail. We won't initiate an audit by telephone. Assistance is available to help you understand the letter/notice received: Understanding your IRS notice or letter.
The IRS will issue these balance due notices and letters in gradual stages in 2024 to ensure taxpayers who have questions or need help are able to reach an IRS assistor. This will also provide additional time for tax professionals assisting taxpayers.
If you must file a paper tax return, consider sending it by certified mail, with a return receipt. This will be your proof of the date you mailed your tax return and when the IRS received it. You may also use certain private delivery services designated by the IRS.
Most IRS audits reach back a maximum of three years, meaning any tax returns you filed during the previous three years may be included in the audit. However, while three years is the typical cut-off point, there are also some situations in which the IRS will extend or even double the standard audit period.
Signs that the IRS might be investigating you. Abrupt change in IRS agent behavior. If an IRS agent who had been actively pursuing your IRS tax debt suddenly stops contacting you and does not return your calls, it could be an indication that your case has been referred to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID).
When your taxes are under review, it's normal to wonder if you'll still get your refund. The answer is, it depends. If your information checks out, your refund will be processed. If there's a discrepancy, and you've incorrectly reported, you may end up owing instead of receiving a refund.
What is a 5071C letter? The IRS sends a 5071C letter when it receives a tax return with your name and tax identification number, but believes the return to be fraudulent. A Letter 5071C will ask you to complete an online identity verification process to confirm your identity.
IRS collection actions: When the IRS initiates collection activities for unpaid federal taxes, certified letters are sent to notify taxpayers of the actions being taken. This may include notices of liens, levies, or other enforcement actions.
Overestimating home office expenses and charitable contributions are red flags to auditors. Simple math mistakes and failing to sign a tax return can trigger an audit and incur penalties. Taxpayers should report all income from Form W-2, Form 1099, and any cash earnings.
The letter's formatting and language should be professional, with no typos, grammatical errors, or strange fonts. It should address you by name and refer to details specific to your tax situation, such as your Social Security number and tax years. IRS scammers won't have access to this kind of information.
Characteristics of an Official IRS Audit Letter
Within this envelope, you'll find crucial details such as your name, taxpayer identification number (usually your Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number), the tax year being audited, and a unique notice or identification number specific to your case.
Does the IRS Send Letters Using Certified Mail? The IRS audit envelope will arrive via certified mail and list your full name, taxpayer ID or social security number, the form number, and the Information they are reviewing.
Other ways we may contact you:
Phone - We might call to discuss your case, verify information or set up a meeting. Fax - We might send a fax to verify or request employment information. In-person visit - These are rare. Find out how and when IRS employees visit you or your business.