A letter from the IRS? Let us read it with you.
Most IRS and state letters have a deadline, and the first response shapes what comes next. We identify what the letter is asking for, check it against your records, and answer on time.
Illustration only. Layouts vary by notice, but the notice number is printed near the top right corner.
Is this you?
An envelope from the IRS or the state can mean many things. Reach out if any of these sound familiar.
A letter you do not understand
The notice uses codes and terms that make it hard to know what the IRS actually wants.
Numbers that do not match
The IRS says income is missing or a credit was wrong, and you are not sure it is right.
A deadline coming up
The letter has a respond by date, and you do not want to miss it.
Letters keep coming
Each new notice sounds more serious than the last, and the balance keeps growing.
Every letter raises the stakes.
When a balance goes unpaid, the IRS generally sends a series of notices every few months. Each one leaves fewer options than the one before.
- CP14The first bill. A balance is due after you file.
- CP501A reminder. The balance is still unpaid.
- CP503A second reminder. Interest and penalties keep growing.
- CP504Intent to levy. The IRS may levy your state refund and move toward other property.
- LT11 or 1058Final notice. 30 days to request a Collection Due Process hearing.
- EnforcementLien or levy. Wages, bank accounts, or property can be reached.
The sequence can vary. States follow their own notice process.
Know what you are holding.
The IRS sends letters for many reasons. The right response depends on which kind you received.
- Read it carefully, keep it, and note the respond by date.
- If you agree with it, you generally do not need to reply unless the letter asks you to.
- If you disagree, follow the instructions and include documents that support your position.
- If you owe, pay what you can by the due date to reduce interest and penalties.
From envelope to answer.
Five steps, with one point of contact the whole way through.
- 1
Send us the letter
A clear photo or scan of every page is enough to get started.
- 2
Identify it
We confirm the notice number, the tax year, what the IRS is asking for, and the deadline.
- 3
Check the records
With your authorization, we compare the letter with your IRS transcripts and your documents.
- 4
Respond on time
We prepare the response, attach the right documents, and send it before the deadline.
- 5
Follow through
We confirm the IRS processed it and handle the next step if the case moves forward.
What to know about IRS letters.
A few facts that save the most trouble.
The deadline is printed on it
Most letters include a date to respond or pay by. Acting before that date keeps your options open.
Scams do not arrive by text
The IRS does not start contact by email, text message, or social media. Real notices come by mail.
Not every letter means you owe
Some letters only propose changes or ask questions. Many can be resolved with the right documents.
What we do for you.
An Enrolled Agent leads your case, with the same person handling it from the first call to the final result.
We read it with you
We explain in plain language what the letter says and what it does not say.
Transcripts first
We check the letter against what the IRS has on file, so the response is based on facts.
One voice with the IRS
With your power of attorney, we answer and speak with the IRS on your behalf.
State letters too
Notices from the state department of revenue are handled the same way.
About IRS letters.
The questions we hear most. Anything else, ask us during your free case review.
Is a CP2000 an audit?
No. A CP2000 is not an audit and not a bill. It proposes changes because income reported by others does not match your return, and it gives you a chance to agree or explain.
What if I already missed the deadline?
Respond as soon as possible. The IRS may finalize proposed changes or move collection forward, and some options narrow with time. We can review where things stand.
How do I know the letter is real?
Real IRS notices come by mail and include a notice number. If a letter looks suspicious, the IRS asks you to call 800‑829‑1040 to confirm.
Should I pay if I cannot pay it all?
Paying what you can by the due date reduces interest and penalties. Payment plans are available for the rest.
When a letter turns into more.
Some letters lead to an audit, a disagreement, or a balance to manage. These services pick up from there.
IRS Audit Representation
Representation through the audit, from the first request to the final report.
View serviceRelated serviceIRS Appeals & Tax Dispute Representation
Representation when you disagree with an IRS decision and want it reviewed.
View serviceRelated serviceInstallment Agreements & Payment Plans
Structured monthly plans negotiated with the IRS or the state.
View serviceGot a letter? Send it to us today.
A photo of every page is enough to start. The first case review is free and confidential.
Free case reviewNo obligationOne point of contact