What Taxpayers Should Do If They Get Mail from the IRS
Getting a letter from the IRS can raise alarm bells, but more often than not, it’s a manageable situation. IRS notices are common and often straightforward to resolve—especially when you know what steps to take.
At Big Cake Tax, we want to make sure our clients feel confident handling IRS letters, even when we're not immediately available. For example, during our Summer Break from June 17 through July 19, we’ll be out of the office. If you receive IRS correspondence during that time (or any time), here's what to do.
1. Read the Letter Carefully
IRS letters are typically related to your federal tax return, your account, or a balance due. The notice will explain the reason for the communication and what steps—if any—you need to take. Don’t jump to conclusions before reading through it in full.
2. Review the Information and Compare It to Your Return
If the IRS adjusted something on your return, compare it to what you originally filed. If you agree with the changes, you usually don’t need to do anything beyond keeping a record. If you disagree or if the IRS is requesting more information, you’ll likely need to respond.
3. Make a Payment If One Is Requested
If the notice says you owe taxes, pay as soon as possible to avoid additional interest and penalties. You can pay directly through the IRS website at irs.gov/payments or explore payment plan options if needed.
4. Only Contact the IRS If the Notice Instructs You To
Most IRS letters don’t require a phone call. If your notice does, use the number in the top right corner and have your tax return and the letter in front of you. Otherwise, follow the instructions exactly as written.
5. If You Disagree, Respond Promptly
If you believe the IRS got something wrong, you can dispute it—but don’t ignore it. Follow the instructions on the notice and include any documentation that supports your position.
6. Keep the Letter for Your Records
IRS letters should be kept on file for at least three years, along with your tax return and related documents. Even minor notices can be important for future filings or corrections.
7. Beware of Scams
The IRS does not contact taxpayers by text, social media, or email. The first communication is almost always by mail. If you’re unsure whether something is legitimate, you can check your IRS Online Account or consult the IRS scam alerts page at irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts.
When Your Accountant Is Out of Office
During periods like our upcoming summer break from June 17 through July 19, you can still take the right steps with an IRS notice. Follow the guidance above, save all correspondence, and feel free to email us with any urgent updates. We’ll follow up as soon as we return on July 20 to help with any next steps.
Need assistance responding to a notice or resolving a tax issue? You can book a consultation with us anytime here.
Big Cake Tax
Helping you keep more cake on your plate—and your IRS letters in check.