It has been a few weeks since you filed you income tax return.  And you have yet to receive your refund.  You contact your tax preparer even checked the IRS website for any information.  You see a message regarding your return stating that it is still being processed or that a different action has been taken.  A couple of days later you receive a notice letter from the IRS.  Depending on the information of the notice you will have to act accordingly.  If you agree with the information stated on the notice or letter you do not need to contact the IRS.

Why did I receive a notice letter from the IRS?

You will receive notices and letters from the IRS for the following reasons:

• You may have a balance due.
• There may be a change in the amount of your refund.
• The IRS may have a question regarding your tax return.
• Your identity may need to be verified.
• The IRS may need additional information to finalize your return.
• There was a change in your return.
• The IRS may be notifying you of delays in processing time for your return.

Next steps

Read your notice or letter as it contains important information regarding your tax return.  If you see changes within your tax return, take out your original return and compare with the information found on the notice or letter.

Respond to the notice or letter if required by the specific date.  You must respond in a timely manner

• to minimize additional interest and penalty charges.
• to preserve your appeal rights if you don’t agree.

Pay as much as you can.  You can pay online or apply for an Online Payment Agreement.  The IRS gives you many options to make your tax payment either through your bank account or credit card.  Other ways to pay include electronic funds withdrawal, same day wire, check or money order.

Keep a copy of your notice or letter in case the IRS requests for those documents again.

Contact the IRS for any questions you may have. You can find the contact information on the top right-hand corner of your notice or letter.  The IRS expects a call from you in case you do not agree with the information, if additional information was requested or a balance is due.

There may be a case where a notice or letter looks suspicious. If that is the case visit the section of Report Phishing on IRS website.  There is a telephone number you can also call 1-800-829-1040.  Remember that the IRS will never ask for your personal information via e-mail, telephone or social media.