2026 UPDATE · We are reviewing guidance against current IRS publications, forms, and collection standards.

I received a notice

What should I do when I receive an IRS notice or letter?

Identify the notice number in the top or bottom-right corner, confirm what it is asking for and any deadline, verify the amounts against your own records, and then choose a response before the deadline. Most notices have a specific response window, and acting within it preserves the most options.

The path from here

  1. 1. Identify the notice

    Find the notice number (e.g., CP14, CP504, LT11) and look it up to understand exactly what it means.

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  2. 2. Confirm the deadline

    Note any response deadline. Deadlines determine which options remain available.

  3. 3. Verify the numbers

    Compare the balance, tax year, and adjustments against your own records and prior notices.

  4. 4. Choose a response

    Decide whether you agree, disagree, or need more time — then act before the deadline.

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Related IRS notices

Browse The Tax Relief Answer Book