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Handling IRS Notices: Stay Calm and Informed

Opening a letter from the “Internal Revenue Service” might feel like a daunting task, often igniting a sense of panic. However, even individuals with impeccable organizational skills share this common sentiment when faced with an IRS notice.

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A Reality Check
Most IRS notices do not signal an emergency. Many are standard procedures or simple queries that can be managed efficiently once you understand their purpose.

Understanding the Purpose of IRS Notices

The IRS dispatches millions of notices annually for several reasons, primarily categorizing into the following:

  • Mismatched Information
    This is a frequent occurrence where there’s a discrepancy between forms like a 1099 or W-2 and your tax return, triggering an auto-generated notice.

  • Request for Additional Information
    Simple errors or missing data can prompt the IRS to seek further clarification. Generally, these issues are minor.

  • Payment Discrepancies
    Sometimes payments are misallocated or not reflected correctly on your return, prompting further inquiry.

  • Adjustments from the IRS
    This might involve recalculated refunds or modifications to credits or deductions.

  • Identity Verification
    To fortify identity-theft protections, the IRS may request you to confirm your identity. Typically, these notices are precautionary rather than accusatory.

Consult a Professional Before Responding

A common error is responding hastily to an IRS notice without professional guidance. Consider the following steps instead:

  • Don’t rush to pay any indicated amounts.

  • Avoid immediate contact with the IRS without clarity on your situation.

  • Avoid sending documents without explanation — context is crucial.

  • Ignoring notices is not recommended; deadlines are important.

Your financial professional can assist you in deciphering whether the notice is accurate, if an amount is indeed owed, or if further documentation is necessary.

Deciphering IRS Codes

Every IRS notice comes with a specific code identifying the subject. Familiarizing yourself with these can demystify the notice:

  • CP2000 — Underreported Income: Suggests discrepancies in reported income, often due to late or misplaced vendor forms.
  • CP14 — Balance Due: May indicate an owed balance, possibly due to timing issues.
  • CP75 — Audit Documentation Request: Requests proof for a claimed credit or deduction.
  • Letter 5071C — Identity Verification: Part of fraud prevention measures.
  • Notice of Intent to Levy (LT11/CP504): Requires timely attention but not panic. Professionals handle similar cases routinely.

A Guide to Effective Resolution

A methodical approach generally leads to prompt resolution:

  1. Share the notice with your financial professional.
  2. They will review the details including your tax return to pinpoint the issue.
  3. Evaluate if the IRS position is correct and advise on the response.
  4. Prepare and document the needed response.
  5. If a payment is justified, confirm the correct amount and allocation.
  6. If incorrect, prepare a comprehensive response to clarify your stance.
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Most of these engagements are resolved efficiently and calmly with professional advice.

Why Rely on Professional Guidance?
Navigating IRS notices can be challenging, but a seasoned professional offers expertise in interpreting nuances, identifying IRS errors, and crafting effective communications, keeping you calm and assured throughout.

Don’t Navigate IRS Notices Alone

If you receive an IRS notice, stay calm and reach out to our firm immediately. We'll help translate its meaning and guide you effectively towards resolution.

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