Getting a letter from the IRS can stop you in your tracks. Whether it’s a CP504, a balance due notice, or an audit letter, knowing what to do next can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

At Polaris Tax & Accounting, we work with individuals and business owners across Plantation, FL who’ve received IRS letters and aren’t sure what their options are. Here’s what you need to know—and what to avoid—when the IRS comes knocking.

📬 Why You Received an IRS Notice

IRS letters can stem from a range of issues, including:

  • Missed or underpaid taxes
  • Unfiled returns
  • Mismatched income reporting (like 1099s or W-2s)
  • Late estimated payments
  • Unreported income flagged through third-party data

Some of the most common notices include:

  • CP2000: Unreported income discrepancy
  • CP504: Final Notice before Levy
  • LT11 / Letter 1058: Intent to levy assets
  • CP14: Balance due
  • Letter 5071C: Identity verification

⚠️ Not every IRS notice is correct. We frequently resolve cases where the IRS made errors or used outdated information.

❌ What Not to Do When You Get a Notice

  • Do NOT ignore it. Many notices are time-sensitive. Ignoring them can lead to liens, levies, or garnishments.
  • Do NOT call the IRS without understanding the issue. You might say something that complicates your case.
  • Do NOT assume you owe the amount listed. Sometimes it’s a proposed change, not a final bill.

✅ What to Do First

  1. Read the notice carefully. Look for the notice number, tax year, and deadline to respond.
  2. Gather related documents. Prior tax returns, 1099s, W-2s, bank statements, etc.
  3. Get professional help. IRS issues are rarely “one-size-fits-all.” Our team has resolved hundreds of cases with successful outcomes.

📌 See our service page for more: IRS Tax Problems

🛠️ How Polaris Can Help You

As a local firm serving Plantation and South Florida, we offer:

  • IRS transcript pull & review: We identify all balances, notices, and deadlines
  • Response letter preparation: We draft written replies with supporting documentation
  • Penalty abatement & negotiation: Including first-time penalty relief and reasonable cause claims
  • Installment Agreements or Currently Not Collectible status
  • Representation in audits or appeals

We don’t just send forms—we act as your advocate throughout the entire process.

📂 Types of IRS Cases We Handle

  • Late tax filings and unfiled returns
  • Audit letters and field exam support
  • Tax debt over $10,000
  • Incorrect IRS notices
  • Levy, lien, or wage garnishment situations

We’ll also help you determine if it’s worth amending past returns or entering into a settlement or payment plan.

👀 What Makes Us Different from National Tax Chains

  • We’re not a call center. You’ll speak with a licensed advisor who understands your case from Day 1.
  • We’re proactive. We don’t just respond—we guide.
  • We’re local to Plantation. We serve clients across Florida and understand state and federal interplay.
  • We’re strategic. If you’re self-employed, have real estate, or own a business, we integrate tax planning into your resolution.

📌 See also: If Your Old Tax Preparer Just Rebranded, Here’s What You Deserve to Know

🧾 What to Bring to a Consultation

  • Any IRS notices (PDF or mailed)
  • Your last two years of tax returns
  • Details about your income, expenses, or business activity
  • Payment history or prior IRS correspondence

Take Control of Your IRS Situation

Every day you wait is another day of penalties, interest, or worse. The good news? The IRS has options—and so do you.

📍 Based in Plantation, FL, Polaris Tax & Accounting helps clients across South Florida resolve IRS issues with clarity and confidence.

👉 Schedule a consultation today  for Tax Resolution.