Getting a letter from the IRS can be unsettling. Whether it’s about unpaid taxes, unfiled returns, or a proposed adjustment, it’s crucial to act quickly and correctly.
At Polaris Tax & Accounting in Plantation, FL, we help individuals and businesses respond to IRS notices with clarity and confidence—before things escalate.
Types of IRS Notices You Might Receive
Here are some of the most common IRS notices:
- CP2000 – Underreported Income Notice → IRS found a mismatch between your return and third-party records (like W-2s or 1099s)
- CP504 – Final Notice of Intent to Levy → A serious warning that the IRS may garnish wages or seize assets
- LT11 – Final Notice Before IRS Garnishment → This means collections are about to begin unless you respond within 30 days
- CP14 – Balance Due Notice → A simple notice that you owe taxes and haven’t paid them yet
Step-by-Step: How to Respond to an IRS Notice
1. Don’t Panic—But Don’t Ignore It
IRS letters are time-sensitive. Ignoring them can lead to interest, penalties, or enforcement actions like levies.
2. Review the Notice Carefully
Every notice includes a notice number (top or bottom right corner), issue date, and response deadline.
3. Verify the IRS’s Claim
Sometimes, the IRS is wrong. Compare the notice with your tax return, income records, or missing filings.
4. Take Corrective Action:
- Pay the balance if it’s accurate
- File missing tax returns
- Provide documentation if they made an error
- Request a payment plan or other resolution option
5. Respond Before the Deadline
Most notices give 30 days to respond before the IRS escalates action.
Why Polaris Tax & Accounting?
- We analyze your notice, tax return, and transcripts to determine next steps
- We speak to the IRS on your behalf
- We help correct errors and avoid unnecessary penalties
- We serve clients throughout Florida with a deep understanding of local tax challenges
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Final Thoughts
Every IRS notice has a deadline. Waiting too long could cost you more in penalties—or trigger enforcement. Let Polaris Tax & Accounting help you respond the right way.