Save “Read an IRS notice without panicking” to MyCheck

6 steps · Checklist

Read an IRS notice without panicking

What to check, in order, before you reply.

• Confirm it came by post; the IRS does not open contact by text or email.

• Find the notice number in the top right corner and look it up.

• Work out which kind it is: informational, a request, or a proposed change.

• Pull your own copy of the return and compare the figures line by line.

• Diary the response date and reply by it, even if you cannot pay in full.

  Not responding lets the IRS assess the proposed amount as if you agreed.

• Decide honestly whether this one is yours to handle or needs help.

Free, and yours to edit — tick items off on the web or in the MyCheck app.