Independent guide. We are not the IRS or a government agency.

IRS correspondence

What to do with an IRS notice or letter

A notice normally identifies the tax year, issue and action requested. Keep the original and use its notice number when looking up instructions.

Quick principle

Use the official online or phone route first when it can solve the task. If you need in-person help, schedule the appointment and bring a complete file.

01

Read every page

Note the notice number, response date, proposed change and contact details. Compare the figures with the return and your records.

02

Respond through the stated channel

Some notices require no reply; others allow an online response, phone call or mailed documents. Follow the instructions printed on your notice.

03

Prepare for in-person help

If the issue remains unresolved, bring the complete notice, related return, proof supporting your position and records of prior calls or correspondence.

Primary source

Confirm the current IRS instructions

We summarized the official material to make preparation easier. Use the IRS page for current eligibility rules, forms, deadlines and case-specific directions.

Look up notices and letters on IRS.gov