Did you receive a notice from the IRS? If so, don’t panic. Many of these letters can be dealt with simply and painlessly.

There are number of reasons the IRS sends notices to taxpayers. Typically, the notice you receive normally covers a very specific issue about your account or tax return. The notice could request payment of taxes, notify you of a change to your account or request some other additional information.

Each notice offers specific instructions on what is needed to satisfy the IRS’ inquiry.

If you receive a correction notice, you should review the correspondence and compare it with the information on your return.  If you agree with the correction to your account, usually no reply is necessary unless a payment is due.

If you do not agree with the correction the IRS made, it is important that you respond as requested. First, however, be sure to contact your PRO-TAX office and discuss the letter with your preparer or the Manager. They will help, as needed, so you can write to explain why you disagree. You will need to include any documents and information the IRS needs to consider, along with the bottom tear-off portion of the notice. Our office can help with any needed copies. Mail the information to the IRS address shown in the upper left-hand corner of the notice. Be sure to allow at least 30 days for a response.

Most of these matters can be handled without calling or visiting an IRS office. However, if you have questions, you may call the telephone number listed in the notice. Have the correspondence and a copy of your tax return available when you call. It’s important that you keep copies of any correspondence with your records.

For more information about IRS notices and bills, see Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process. As always, we are here to help!