So what do i do with it ?

Direct Answer

When you receive an IRS notice, the worst thing you can do is stick it in a drawer and hope it vanishes. You need to open it immediately, verify if the IRS's math or logic is actually correct, and respond by the stated deadline to protect your rights. Whether you agree or disagree, acting quickly prevents automated penalties and aggressive collection actions from starting.

What It Means

• An IRS notice is an official legal communication, not a casual suggestion or a piece of junk mail.
• It usually means the IRS found a discrepancy on your tax return, believes you owe money, or is initiating a collection action.
• Ignoring the notice does not pause the IRS; their automated systems will continue to assess penalties, interest, and eventually initiate levies or liens.
• Many notices are actually proposals or corrections, meaning you still have a window to contest them before they become final.

Action Steps

1. Open the letter immediately and locate the notice or letter number in the top right-hand corner.
2. Compare the IRS's claims, tax years, and dollar amounts against your own filed tax returns and records.
3. Call 844-TAX NOTICES to have a licensed Enrolled Agent review your options before you respond.
4. If you agree, pay the balance or set up an installment agreement online at irs.gov to stop further interest from accruing.
5. If you disagree, draft a written response with supporting documentation and mail or fax it directly to the address listed on the notice, keeping photocopy proof of everything you send.

Risks & Deadlines

• Most IRS notices demand a response within 30 days of the date printed at the top of the letter.
• Missing this window can result in the loss of your right to appeal the decision in Tax Court.
• Unresolved notices eventually escalate to intent to levy notices, which give the IRS the power to seize bank accounts or garnish wages.

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