Will the IRS ever send you a letter?

Asked by: Ms. Ernestine Emmerich Sr.  |  Last update: August 11, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (69 votes)

Getting a letter from the IRS can make some taxpayers nervous – but there's no need to panic. The IRS sends notices and letters when it needs to ask a question about a taxpayer's tax return, let them know about a change to their account or request a payment.

What reasons would the IRS send a letter?

The IRS mails letters or notices to taxpayers for a variety of reasons including:
  • They have a balance due.
  • They are due a larger or smaller refund.
  • The agency has a question about their tax return.
  • They need to verify identity.
  • The agency needs additional information.
  • The agency changed their tax return.

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.

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.

What triggers the IRS letter 5071C?

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.

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

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Why is the IRS making me verify my identity?

More In Help. The IRS proactively identifies and stops the processing of potential identity theft returns. You may receive a notice or letter asking you to verify your identity and tax return information with the IRS. This helps prevent an identity thief from getting your refund.

How long does it take to get a letter after 5071C?

What happens after I successfully verify? We'll process your tax return. It may take up to 9 weeks to receive your refund or credit any overpayment to your account.

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.

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.

How does the 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.

Can I view IRS letters online?

The IRS and authorized private debt collection agencies do send letters by mail. Taxpayers can also view digital copies of select IRS notices by logging into their IRS Online Account.

How far back can the IRS audit you?

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.

What does it mean when you receive a 60 day letter from the IRS?

What this notice is about. We need more time to verify your income, income tax withholding, tax credits and/or business income. Please allow up to 60 days before reaching out.

What does IRS audit mail look like?

An IRS audit letter typically includes the taxpayer's name, tax ID number or Social Security number, employee ID number, address, and contact information. It also specifies the tax year being audited and the documentation required.

What notices is the IRS sending out?

You receive a notice or letter from the IRS about a balance due on your account, missing returns, a lien, or a levy. There are several collection alternatives available to you to resolve these issues.

Why am I getting a letter from the Department of Treasury?

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.

Does IRS forgive after 10 years?

The IRS has a limited window to collect unpaid taxes — which is generally 10 years from the date the tax debt was assessed. If the IRS cannot collect the full amount within this period, the remaining balance is forgiven. This is known as the "collection statute expiration date" (CSED).

What qualifies as a hardship with the IRS?

An economic hardship occurs when we have determined the levy prevents you from meeting basic, reasonable living expenses. In order for the IRS to determine if a levy is causing hardship, the IRS will usually need you to provide financial information so be prepared to provide it when you call.

Is the IRS waiving penalties in 2024?

In June 2024, the IRS waived the penalty for the installment due on or before August 15, 2024, for a tax year beginning in 2024 (see Tax Alert 2024-1179).

Is it normal to get a letter from the IRS?

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 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.

What is the number one most requested form from the IRS?

Form 1040 is used by U.S. taxpayers to file an annual income tax 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.

Can I verify my identity for IRS without a letter?

A: To verify your identity with ID.me, you'll need to provide a photo of an identity document such as a driver's license, state ID or passport. You'll also need to take a selfie or choose to video chat with a live ID.me agent.

Does 5071C mean you're getting audited?

The 5071C letter means that the IRS has received your return, but needs more information from you to verify your identity. You can do either of the following: Go to Identity Verification Service and follow the online instructions. Call the IRS toll-free on 800-830-5084 for Identity Verification.