Received an IRS Notice? Here’s the Next Step.
IRS letters feel scary — but most are “respond by this date” paperwork. We help individuals and small businesses understand the notice, gather the right documents, and plan a clean response.
Remote nationwide • Checklist-first • Practical + friendly
Quick checklist:
• Find the notice number (CP or LT)
• Identify the deadline
• Match the notice to your documents
• Respond on time (even if you can’t pay today)
What to Do First (Before You Panic)
Three steps that apply to almost every IRS notice.
Confirm the notice number + deadline
Look for the CP/LT number and the response date. That deadline drives everything.
Compare to your return + income documents
Many letters involve mismatches (for example, a 1099 the IRS has on file).
Choose the safest next action
Respond on time, even if you need more time to sort documents or payment options.
Common IRS Notices We Review
We translate the letter into plain English and a clear plan.
CP2000
Often tied to income mismatch. We compare the notice to your documents and map the response.
Letter 12C
Usually requests missing information so the IRS can finish processing your return.
Balance Due Notice
We clarify what the IRS says you owe, what deadlines apply, and how to respond responsibly.
Unfiled Return Notice
If you’re missing years, we connect you to a filing plan. Start here if you need back taxes help.
What to Bring to Your IRS Notice Consultation
Bring what you have — we’ll fill in gaps with a plan.
Required
- Full IRS notice (all pages)
- Tax return for the year in question (if filed)
- Any related IRS letters you received
Income documents
- W-2, 1099s, or pay statements
- Brokerage statements (if relevant)
- Any document mentioned in the notice
If you’re missing forms
- Bring what you do have
- We’ll map what to request next
- We’ll clarify the best interim response
See more: Tax FAQ
How We Help You Respond
Clear language, clear checklist, clear next step.
Explain the notice
We translate what the IRS is asking and what the notice means for you.
Organize supporting documents
We identify what matters most and what’s missing, so you don’t waste time.
Map the safest next step
We outline response options and timelines, and connect you to next services if needed.
IRS Notice FAQ
Quick answers to the most searched questions.
What should I do first when I receive an IRS notice?
First, read the deadline and notice/letter number (often starts with CP or LT). Next, compare the notice to your return and income documents. Then respond before the due date. If you’re unsure, book a quick consultation to map the safest next step.
What is a CP2000 notice?
A CP2000 is commonly related to a mismatch between what was reported and what the IRS has on file (for example, a missing or different 1099). The next step is to review the notice, compare supporting documents, and respond by the deadline.
Should I ignore an IRS notice if I can’t pay?
Generally, no. Even if you cannot pay immediately, responding can prevent bigger problems later. Track the deadline and take action quickly.
What do I need to bring to an IRS notice consultation?
Bring the full IRS notice (all pages), your tax return for the year in question, and any matching income documents (W-2, 1099, statements). If you’re missing forms, bring what you do have and we’ll map what to request next.
Subscribe to our newsletter!