What letters come certified from IRS?

Asked by: Lynn Kautzer  |  Last update: September 25, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (26 votes)

The IRS will send several notices to the Taxpayer (usually 503/504 notices) when the IRS is considering issuing a levy. When it is time for the Final Notice of Potential Levy – which has a strict deadline response from the Taxpayer – the IRS will send the Final Notice of Potential Tax Levy via certified mail.

Why am I getting a certified letter from the IRS?

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.)

What notices does the IRS send certified?

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.

What is a certified document from the IRS?

A certified copy is an exact copy of the original document that the original issuing agency provides and certifies. It has the agency's official, stamped seal. You can submit certified copies of original documents if you have: The original issuing agency certify the original document.

What kind of letters come from the IRS?

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.

The IRS Certified Letter Guide: Why Did I Receive This?

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Does an IRS audit letter come certified?

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.

Why would I get a certified letter?

You might be on the receiving end of such correspondence for several reasons. It could be anything from official documents to government notices or even personal letters mailed with urgency. The sender might have chosen Certified Mail for added security and proof of delivery, making it all the more intriguing.

How does the IRS handle certified mail?

The IRS uses certified mail as a critical communication tool to ensure important tax notices are officially delivered. This process provides tracking and proof of delivery, confirming that taxpayers are informed and can respond appropriately.

What does it mean when a document has to be certified?

A certified document is an original, official paper that a qualified professional has affirmed, stating that they have witnessed the document and can attest to its authenticity.

What is a certified IRS transcript?

IRS wage and income transcripts show data from information returns, such as W-2s, 1099s, and 1098s, reported to the IRS. You can use this transcript to help file an extended tax return, verify employment, or keep a personal record of income.

What does an audit letter from the IRS look like?

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.

Who would send a certified letter?

Certified Mail® is a mail service from the United States Postal Service (USPS) that provides proof of mailing as well as proof of delivery. The service is used by individuals, businesses, and government entities at the local, state, and federal levels.

How many certified letters does the IRS send before levy?

A tax levy is just one of those ways—but it is one of the most serious. Because of the severity of a levy, the IRS will send 5 notices to an individual before seizing the money in the taxpayer's bank account. After 4 notices, they can seize your state income tax refund without further warning.

What are the most common IRS notices?

IRS Notices
  • CP 501 - Balance Due Reminder Notice.
  • CP 504 - Urgent Notice - Balance Due.
  • CP 523 - Notice of Intent to Levy - You Defaulted on Your Installment Agreement.
  • CP 2000 - Notice of Underreported Income.
  • Letter 531- Notice of Deficiency.
  • Letter 525 - Examination Report.
  • Letter 12C - Information Request.

How does IRS notify you of an audit?

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.

How to find out who a certified letter is from?

You can find out who sent the letter by calling the number on the slip that was left and giving the USPS service agent the delivery number on the slip. . They will tell you the name of the company or person and the address.

What does a certified copy of a document mean?

A certified copy is a copy (often a photocopy) of a primary document that has on it an endorsement or certificate that it is a true copy of the primary document. It does not certify that the primary document is genuine, only that it is a true copy of the primary document.

Does certified mean official?

/ˈsɚtəˌfaɪd/ adjective. Britannica Dictionary definition of CERTIFIED. 1. : having met the official requirements that are needed to do a particular type of work.

Does certified mean registered?

It is not correct to state, in the context of medical assisting, that “registered” is indicative of a national credential, and “certified” represents a state credential.

Why is the IRS sending me a certified letter?

Since there are very strict timelines in an audit or examination, when the IRS wants to notify the Taxpayer of an audit or examination, they will send the notice via certified mail.

Why am I getting a letter from the IRS in 2024?

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.

Is a 5071C letter bad?

Here are the identity fraud letters the IRS may send to taxpayers: Letter 5071C, Potential Identity Theft with Online Option. This letter asks the taxpayer to use an online tool to verify their identity and tell the IRS if they filed that return. Letter 4883C, Potential Identity Theft.

What type of letters come in Certified Mail?

A wide variety of sensitive, legal, or official documents are often sent as certified letters. The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) often sends documents via Certified Mail, including audit notices, Notices of Deficiency, and Notices of Intent to Levy.

Do settlement checks come Certified Mail?

Not always. While certified mail offers tracking and requires a signature upon delivery, it's not universally used. Some insurance companies or legal teams choose certified mail for higher-value settlements or added security. Your attorney can track the payment method and provide updates.

Should I ignore a certified letter?

It's Usually Best Not to Refuse Certified Mail

Tax notices, evictions, and or being summoned to court are all things that won't go away just because you refuse Certified Mail.