Why would the IRS send a signature required letter?

Asked by: Prof. Caesar Champlin  |  Last update: January 27, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (4 votes)

Some common reasons for certified letters include an outstanding balance, refund issues, return questions, identification verification, missing information, return changes, and processing delays. If you're unsure of the reason for a certified letter from the IRS, ask your tax accountant for help.

What kind of letter from the IRS requires a signature?

Signature requirement: A certified letter isn't left in someone's mailbox. It requires a signature as a record of delivery and will be returned if not accepted by the intended recipient. Electronic delivery: The final component of IRS-certified mail is electronic delivery tracking.

Why would I get a letter that requires a signature?

Could be a form of legal document or anything that the sender wanted verification and/or notification that the recipient received the mail... sometimes even just insured mail can also require a signature.

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.)

Why would the IRS be sending me a letter?

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.

Received an IRS Letter in the Mail? Here's What To Do

23 related questions found

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.

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.

Does a certified letter from the IRS mean an audit?

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.

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.

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 is the difference between signature required and Certified Mail?

Certified mail provides a mailing receipt to the sender as proof that a package was sent on a certain date, as well as electronic verification of delivery upon request. Signature confirmation provides the sender with the recipient's signature, name, delivery date, and delivery address.

Why would a letter be sent signed for?

Signed for just means the item will be delivered as usual when the postman comes around, and if you are out, the postman will put a card through your letter box saying you can collect the item from the sorting office or arrange a subsequent delivery.

Why would the Department of Treasury send me a letter?

If we take money from a federal payment to pay an overdue debt that you owe, you will get a letter notifying you of the offset.

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.

What is a letter that requires a signature?

Certified Mail is a service offered by the United States Postal Service. A certified item needs a delivery signature; it can't be left in a mailbox or on a doorstep. Certified Mail is only available on first-class mail. USPS lets you get a signature from the person who received the mail, such as a receptionist.

How does the IRS contact you if you owe money?

The IRS won't call, text or contact you via social media to demand immediate tax payment. We begin with a letter in the mail and explain how you can appeal or question what you owe. If you're unsure whether you owe money to the IRS, you can view your tax account information on IRS.gov. Beware of phone scams.

Why would the IRS send me a letter that needs a signature?

Some common reasons for certified letters include an outstanding balance, refund issues, return questions, identification verification, missing information, return changes, and processing delays. If you're unsure of the reason for a certified letter from the IRS, ask your tax accountant for help.

What are red flags for IRS?

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.

Is it always bad news when you get a letter 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 specific instructions on what to do. Don't panic. The IRS and its authorized private collection agencies do send letters by mail.

What triggers an IRS criminal investigation?

The IRS may pursue criminal charges if they suspect fraudulent returns. Criminal conduct refers to any act that violates tax laws and regulations. If the IRS determines that there is enough evidence to warrant criminal action, they will refer the case to the Department of Justice for prosecution.

What is the IRS 6 year rule?

6 years - If you don't report income that you should have reported, and it's more than 25% of the gross income shown on the return, or it's attributable to foreign financial assets and is more than $5,000, the time to assess tax is 6 years from the date you filed the return.

How do I know if my tax return has been flagged?

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.

Why would I randomly get a letter from the IRS?

If you receive an IRS notice or letter

We may send you a notice or letter if: You have a balance due. Your refund has changed. We have a question about your return.

What is an IRS closing letter?

An estate tax closing letter is a written communication from the IRS that specifies the amount of the net estate tax, the state death tax credit or deduction, and any generation-skipping transfer tax for which the estate is liable; however, it does not indicate how much has been paid in estate tax or generation- ...

What is the IRS one time forgiveness?

First Time Abate relief and unpaid tax

Example: You didn't fully pay your taxes in 2021 and got a notice with the balance due and penalty charges. You call us requesting penalty relief and we give you First Time Abate. We remove the penalty up to the date of your request.