The short answer
Don't ignore it, and don't panic. Many IRS letters give you about 30 days from the date printed on the letter to respond, so go by the due date on yours. Read the whole letter, note the notice number and the response date, and check that it matches your IRS online account. If you agree, do what it asks. If you disagree, follow the instructions to dispute it before the deadline. If it's a final notice or you're unsure, get help right away.
First, make sure it's really the IRS
The IRS usually contacts people by mail first. The IRS does not:
- Call to demand immediate payment by gift card, prepaid debit card or wire transfer
- Demand payment without giving you a chance to question or appeal the amount
If a letter looks suspicious or doesn't show up in your IRS online account, call the IRS at 800-829-1040.
Don't have an IRS online account yet? It's the quickest way to check a letter. The account shows digital copies of many IRS notices, along with your balance and payments. You sign in with ID.me, and you only verify your identity once. → How to set up your IRS online account
What to do next
- 1.Read the whole notice. It explains what changed and what, if anything, you need to do.
- 2.Find the response date. Acting before it keeps more options open.
- 3.If you agree, take the requested action. You don't need to reply unless the notice asks you to.
- 4.If you disagree, follow the notice's instructions and include copies of your supporting documents.
- 5.Keep a copy of the notice and everything you send.
Would you rather someone else handled it? An Enrolled Agent can speak to the IRS for you.
Related service: IRS Letters & Tax Resolution in Shelby
Common notices
| Notice | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| CP14 | What it meansYou owe money on unpaid taxes | What to doPay in full, or look at payment plan options if you can't |
| CP2000 | What it meansIncome or payment information the IRS received doesn't match your return. It proposes changes; it is not a bill | What to doReview it carefully and respond by the date shown, agreeing or explaining why you disagree |
| CP504 | What it meansNotice of Intent to Levy: your balance is still unpaid, and the IRS can levy wages, bank accounts or your state tax refund | What to doAct immediately: pay, set up a payment plan or get professional help |
Letters from the NC Department of Revenue
North Carolina sends its own notices about your state return. Treat them the same way: read them, note the deadline and respond. We can help with those too.
Having someone represent you
You can authorize a tax professional to deal with the IRS for you by filing Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative. Enrolled Agents, CPAs and attorneys have unlimited representation rights before the IRS.
Official sources
- IRS, Understanding your IRS notice or letter
- IRS, Understanding your CP14 notice
- IRS, Understanding your CP2000 series notice
- IRS, Understanding your CP504 notice
- IRS, How to know it's really the IRS calling or knocking on your door
- IRS, Understanding tax return preparer credentials
This guide is general information, not advice for your situation. Tax rules change; check with us or the official source before acting.