JK Harris and Company, Creating Lifetime Clients

Many of you may have experienced the anxious feeling that comes when you open the mailbox and find a letter bearing the IRS’ return address in the upper left hand corner.  Don’t panic! There are many different types of correspondence that the IRS sends out, so a letter from the IRS doesn’t always mean bad news.

According to the IRS, every year millions of letters and notices are sent out to taxpayers to request payment of taxes, notify them of a change to their account or request additional information.  These notices are usually very specific in nature regarding your account or tax return.  Normally, these letters carry very definitive instructions on what you need to do to satisfy the IRS’ request for information or payment.

If you agree with the correspondence, you do not need to reply to the letter unless a payment is due.

Disagree with the letter?  If your records show that the IRS has incorrect information, respond as directed in the letter as soon as possible.  Write an explanation on why you disagree with the IRS notice and include any documents you have that may back up your letter.  Be sure to include the tear off portion of the IRS notice.  Mail your letter to the IRS address in the upper left-hand corner of the notice.  The IRS requests that you give them at least 30 days to respond to your letter.

Usually, these requests can be handled by correspondence.  If you do need to call the IRS for more information or to have your questions answered, make sure you have your tax return in front of you and call the number listed in the upper right hand corner of the IRS notice.  Keep all copies of correspondence between you and the IRS for future reference.

For more information on IRS notices and bills, see Publication 954, What You Should Know about the IRS Collection Process.  More information about penalties and interest charges is available in Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax. You can order these publications by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676) or online at www.irs.gov.