What types of IRS tax notices does TaxBandits support?


TaxBandits supports 52 different types of IRS notices, making it easier for you to manage and respond to them in one secure platform. If you receive an IRS notice, you can simply upload it to TaxBandits, and our AI system will automatically extract the payer and notice details for you. This helps you review the information quickly and proceed with the necessary actions to avoid any penalties.

Listed below are the 52 IRS notice types that TaxBandits supports:

Notice type What it is What should you do to
CP2100/CP2100A The IRS has identified missing or incorrect Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TINs) in your 1099 filings. This can lead to a 24% backup withholding requirement for the vendors involved if not addressed promptly.
  • Review the list of mismatched/missing TINs in the notice and send the First B Notice with Form W-9 to each affected vendor within 15 business days.
     
  • If no response is received within 30 days, send a Second B Notice and initiate 24% backup withholding on future payments.
     
  • File corrected 1099 forms with the IRS after receiving updated TINs.
CP259 The IRS has no record of your required employment tax return (Form 941 or Form 940). This may happen if a prior filing failed or was not received.
  • Check if the return was filed correctly by reviewing your e-file confirmation or certified mail receipt.
     
  • If the return was not filed, submit it immediately — include a penalty waiver request if applicable.
     
  • If the return was filed incorrectly, use Form 941-X to file an amendment.
Letter 2030

The IRS is proposing changes to your business return due to mismatches between your filings and third-party data (like W-2s or 1099s). Common reasons include 

 
  • Underreported income
  • Mismatched EIN/SSN
  • Disallowed deductions.
  • Review the proposed changes and compare them with your internal records.
     
  • Gather supporting documents (bank statements, W-2/1099 copies) to verify accuracy.
     
  • Respond to the IRS — dispute with Form 941-X and proof, or pay via EFTPS if you agree.
CP136B The IRS has changed your Form 941 deposit schedule from monthly to semiweekly due to tax liability, projections, or late payment history.
  • Check your deposit liability for the lookback period (Form 941, Line 12).
     
  • If incorrect, call the IRS (800-829-4933) and submit documentation of timely deposits.
     
  • If correct but burdensome, request a payment variance using Form 941-V.
Letter 1462 IRS requests clarification on backup withholding (24%) for payees with missing TINs, incorrect name/TIN combinations, or prior non-compliance.
  • Review the list of affected vendors in the notice.
     
  • Collect valid Form W-9 and start backup withholding using Form 945.
     
  • Keep documentation for possible penalty relief.
Letter 484C IRS couldn’t verify TINs for some vendors on your information returns, risking B Notice escalation and penalties.
  • Review original W-9s from affected vendors.
     
  • Request updated W-9s and use IRS TIN Matching to validate.
     
  • File corrections with Form 1096 and updated 1099s.
972CG Issued by the IRS for late filing, incorrect, or missing information returns.
  • Verify filing dates and records in the FIRE System.
     
  • Decide to pay or dispute using Form 2848 if authorized.
     
  • Request penalty abatement if eligible for first-time errors or reasonable cause.
CP15 Issued for the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty (TFRP) when a responsible person fails to pay withheld taxes.
  • Review Form 941 filings and EFTPS payment history.
     
  • File Form 2848 and submit proof if disputing.
     
  • Request penalty relief or pay via EFTPS to avoid more charges.
CP215  This penalty notice is issued when W-2s were not filed with the SSA, even though Form 941 was submitted. It’s commonly triggered by rejected W-2s, late filings, or using an incorrect EIN.
  • Check the filing status of your W-2s through the SSA Business Services portal and file immediately if missing.
     
  • Request penalty relief using First-Time Abatement or by providing reasonable cause documentation.
CP504 / CP504B This is a final notice from the IRS before enforced collection actions begin, such as levying bank accounts, receivables, or other assets. Immediate action is required to avoid further consequences.
  • Pay the full balance immediately using IRS Direct Pay or call to set up a payment plan.
     
  • If paid already, request a levy release from the IRS.
CP161 This notice indicates that the IRS has identified unpaid payroll tax deposits. It typically results from missed EFTPS payments, underreported withholdings, or reconciliation issues in your payroll filings.
  • Review payment history in the EFTPS portal to confirm amounts.
     
  • If disputing, submit Form 843 with proof of payment and bank statements showing ACH transfers.
     
  • If payment is due, pay in full via IRS Direct Pay or request an installment plan using Form 433-D.
CP160 This is a reminder from the IRS about unpaid taxes or penalties. It outlines the balance due — including the principal amount, interest, and penalties — and may escalate to enforced collection if ignored.
  • To resolve, set up an Online Payment Agreement or submit Form 9465 for an installment plan.
     
  • If an error is suspected, request an Account Transcript and file an amended return if correction is needed.
CP501 This is the first reminder from the IRS regarding a balance due. It’s usually sent a few weeks after your return is processed and includes a payment voucher before additional penalties begin to accrue.
  • Review the notice amount and ensure it matches your records.
     
  • If accurate, pay the balance using IRS Direct Pay or credit/debit card (processing fee applies).
     
  • If unable to pay immediately, call 800-829-0922 to request a short-term extension.
CP503 This is the second reminder about a balance due and serves as a warning before serious collection actions. It features a red “IMPORTANT” banner, allows less time to respond than CP501, and signals you’re closer to levy enforcement.
  • Pay the full amount immediately using Same-Day Wire or cash at an IRS retail payment location.
     
  • If disputing the notice, call the IRS at the listed number and fax supporting documentation for review.
     
  • Take action while still eligible for a 120-day full payment agreement or temporary delay request.
CP90/CP297 Final notice of intent to levy. Sent before the IRS proceeds with actions such as bank account levies, wage garnishment, or asset seizure.
  • Request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing immediately by completing Form 12153 and sending it via certified mail with return receipt.
     
  • During the appeal period, levy actions are paused, and you can negotiate payment arrangements.
     
  • Consider last-resort options like submitting an Offer in Compromise or requesting Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status.
Letter 1058 This is the final notice of intent to levy and informs you of your right to a hearing. It outlines the specific assets the IRS may target for levy, your appeal rights, and the collection alternatives available to you.
  • File Form 12153 within 30 days to stop collection actions and protect your appeal rights.
     
  • Explore options like Innocent Spouse Relief and penalty abatement.
     
  • Prepare documentation: last 3 years bank statements, asset listings, verified expenses.
Letter 226J This notice proposes a penalty for failing to offer Affordable Care Act (ACA)-compliant health coverage. It is issued only to Applicable Large Employers (ALEs) who did not meet ACA requirements for employee health coverage.
  • Review the penalty assessment and supporting details in the notice.
     
  • Respond to the IRS using Form 14764 to agree or dispute with proof.
     
  • Submit your response by the notice deadline to avoid enforcement.
Letter 5005-A This notice proposes a Trust Fund Recovery Penalty (TFRP) against individuals the IRS holds responsible for unpaid payroll taxes. This creates personal liability for the unpaid amount.
  • Review the assessment details in the notice.
     
  • If you disagree, submit Form 2751 with supporting proof.
     
  • If eligible, request first-time penalty abatement or pay immediately if you agree.
CP210 The IRS has made changes to your business tax return, resulting in a balance due. Adjustments may involve disallowed deductions, unreported income, or other discrepancies.
  • Compare IRS adjustments with your business records for accuracy.
     
  • If correct, pay the balance using IRS Direct Pay.
     
  • If you disagree, contact the IRS and submit supporting documents for review.
CP2000 This notice proposes changes to your income, deductions, or credits due to mismatches between your return and third-party data (W-2s, 1099s). It may lead to a balance due or a reduced refund.
  • Review IRS calculations and compare with your records.
     
  • Respond by either agreeing and paying or disputing with Form 886-A and supporting documents.
     
  • If needed, file an amended return to correct errors.
CP11 / CP12 The IRS corrected a math or calculation error on your return, adjusting your refund amount based on mismatched or incorrect information.
  • Review IRS changes and compare with your original return.
     
  • If you disagree, call the IRS and submit corrected calculations with supporting details.
     
  • If correct, no further action is required.
Letter 112C Your tax return was rejected due to missing forms or schedules (e.g., Schedule C for sole proprietors). The IRS cannot process the return until it is corrected.
  • Identify missing forms or schedules listed in the notice.
     
  • Submit required documents within 20 days, including a signed declaration if e-filed.
     
  • Resubmit the corrected return if instructed by the IRS.
Letter 984C Your e-filed return was rejected because of missing or invalid signatures, including failed digital signature verification or missing signature forms.
  • Locate the original signed return or signature authorization.
     
  • Complete and submit Form 8453 to the IRS.
     
  • Resubmit documents by certified mail to ensure proof of submission.
CP22A/CP22E The IRS has made adjustments to your return, resulting in a balance due. These changes often involve disallowed deductions, unreported income, or math errors.
  • Review the IRS changes and compare them with your records.
     
  • If you agree, pay the full amount using IRS Direct Pay or set up an Installment Agreement.
     
  • If you disagree, call the IRS, submit Form 656 for an Offer in Compromise, and include supporting documentation.
CP23 The IRS found discrepancies between your estimated tax payments and amounts on your return, possibly due to underpayment, misapplied payments, or account errors.
  • Verify all estimated tax payments by reviewing your IRS Payment Transcript and matching payment details with your records.
     
  • If the IRS made an error, call 800-829-0922 and provide proof of payment.
     
  • If the discrepancy is on your end, file an amended return using Form 1040-X to correct it.
CP39 The IRS has applied your current year overpayment to a prior year tax debt. This typically happens due to owed taxes from a previous year, the IRS offset program, or a math error causing an inaccurate overpayment.
  • Review your IRS Account Transcript to confirm how the overpayment was applied.
     
  • If the offset is incorrect, file Form 843 to request a refund and include documentation proving the prior debt was already paid.
     
  • Maintain records to support your refund request if needed.
CP44 The IRS is holding your refund because of issues like an unfiled prior year return, an ongoing audit, or pending identity verification. Your refund will be released only after the matter is resolved.
  • Review the notice to identify the specific reason your refund is held.
     
  • Take appropriate action based on the issue: File missing returns, complete identity verification, or respond to audit requests.
     
  • If you believe the hold is an error, submit Form 843 with supporting documents to request correction.
CP88 The IRS is withholding your refund due to one or more unfiled tax returns. If not addressed promptly, this can escalate to liens or levies.
  • File all missing tax returns immediately to resolve the refund hold.
     
  • For complex cases or if you owe taxes, submit Form 9465 to request a payment plan or call 866-681-4271 for special assistance.
     
  • After filing, allow 6–8 weeks for your refund to be processed and released.
Letter 3172 The IRS has filed a Federal Tax Lien against your property due to unpaid tax debt. This lien becomes public record, may impact your credit, limit asset transfers, and lead to enforced collection actions like bank levies.
  • Explore payment options: set up an Online Payment Agreement or submit an Offer in Compromise if eligible.
     
  • To remove the lien, pay the full amount (IRS releases lien within 30 days) or request withdrawal using Form 12277.
     
  • If your total debt exceeds $50,000, consider consulting a tax attorney for legal guidance.
Letter 3523

The IRS’s response to your audit reconsideration request indicates if your original assessment was adjusted, a refund issued, or if more tax is due.

  • If you disagree with the IRS decision, file Form 12203 within 90 days to appeal.
     
  • Prepare for Tax Court by hiring a tax attorney, gathering supporting evidence, and filing your petition electronically.
     
  • If you agree with the decision, pay any balance due using IRS Direct Pay. You may request penalty abatement if eligible.
Letter 3850 The IRS has assessed a penalty for failure to file required payroll or information returns (e.g., Forms 941, W-2, or 1099). The penalty varies by lateness, business size, and intent.
  • File all missing returns immediately to stop further penalties.
     
  • Explore penalty relief options such as First-Time Abatement or Reasonable Cause (with documentation).
     
  • Submit Form 843 with a written explanation and any supporting documentation to justify your claim.
CP3219N A formal Notice of Deficiency proposing changes such as increased tax liability, disallowed credits/deductions, and additional penalties. You have 90 days to respond before the IRS finalizes the assessment.
  • Consult a tax attorney immediately to understand your legal options.
     
  • If you disagree, file a petition with the U.S. Tax Court within 90 days.
     
  • If you agree, pay the full amount or request a payment plan.
CP05/CP05A IRS is reviewing your tax return, which may delay your refund due to income verification, claimed credits/deductions, identity verification, or audit selection.
  • Check refund status with the “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
     
  • Review your return for errors or unusual claims.
     
  • If no update after 60 days, call the IRS and request a Tier 2 specialist.
CP240

The IRS found a discrepancy between wages reported on Form 941 and amounts on W-2s. This may involve underreported wages, mismatched SSNs, or unreported tips.

  • Review IRS figures and compare with your payroll records.
     
  • If IRS figures are incorrect, call 800-829-0922, provide supporting documents, and submit corrected W-3 and W-2c forms.
     
  • If figures are correct, pay the balance using EFTPS and file Form 941-X to amend the payroll return.
CP102 The IRS did not receive your Form 940 (Federal Unemployment Tax Return). This can happen due to no record, incomplete filing, or EIN mismatch.
  • Check your filing status with SSA to confirm Form 940 submission.
     
  • If not filed, submit Form 940 immediately and include a penalty waiver request if eligible.
     
  • If filed, provide proof (e.g., certified mail receipt) and call IRS at 800-829-4933 for resolution.
CP107 This notice informs you of IRS adjustments to Form 1042 (Annual Withholding Tax Return for U.S. Source Income of Foreign Persons). Changes may include withholding amounts, denial of treaty benefits, or reporting errors.
  • Review your treaty documentation and withholding records for accuracy.
     
  • If you disagree, file Form 1042-X with copies of relevant W-8BEN forms.
     
  • If there’s a balance due, pay via IRS Direct Pay or request an installment agreement if over $25,000.
CP128 The IRS applied your overpayment/refund to other tax debts or obligations. This may also result from math errors or misapplied estimated payments.
  • Review your IRS Account Transcript to verify the overpayment application.
     
  • If incorrect, file Form 843 to request a refund or correction.
     
  • If accurate, no further action is needed.
CP520 This is a final warning from the IRS before your EIN is revoked. Issued when there are 3+ years of unfiled returns, no responses, or inactivity.
  • File all missing tax returns immediately.
     
  • If your business address has changed, submit Form 8822-B to update it.
     
  • If the business is active, call 800-829-4933 and provide proof of prior filings.
CP575A

This notice confirms your new EIN assignment by the IRS, including your business structure, official record date, and other details.

  • Verify your business name, structure, and EIN for accuracy.
     
  • Keep a copy securely with your formation documents.
     
  • Share a copy with your bank, payroll provider, and tax preparer.
CP575C This notice confirms updates to your EIN record, including changes to your business structure, ownership, or mailing address.
  • Review the updated information and compare it with your records.
     
  • If incorrect, respond within 60 days by calling 800-829-4933 and submitting Form 8822-B.
     
  • Update your EIN info with banks, payroll providers, and business partners.
CP575D This is a duplicate confirmation of your EIN, issued when the original CP575 was lost or misplaced. It includes your assigned EIN and original issue date.
  • Compare the details with your original records.
     
  • If replacing an outdated copy, securely discard the old one.
     
  • Store this notice safely—either digitally (with password protection) or physically in a secure, fireproof location.
CP2501 This IRS notice proposes changes to your tax return due to discrepancies between your reported income and third-party data (W-2s, 1099s). It is not a bill but a request for clarification and possible correction.
  • Review the discrepancies by comparing IRS figures with your records using the Wage & Income Transcript.
     
  • Gather supporting documents such as bank statements, corrected 1099s, or W-2s.
     
  • Respond by signing and returning the form if you agree, or provide a written explanation with documentation if you disagree.
Letter 1363 This notice addresses international tax non-compliance, including missing FBAR (FinCEN 114) reports, unfiled FATCA Form 8938, or undisclosed foreign financial assets.
  • File any outstanding FinCEN 114 and Form 8938 reports immediately.
     
  • Consider applying for Streamlined Filing Compliance (non-willful) or Voluntary Disclosure Program (willful).
     
  • Consult an international tax attorney for guidance and resolution.
CP01B This is an IRS identity theft alert triggered by suspicious activity, such as multiple tax return filings or inconsistent personal data.
  • Complete identity verification through ID.me.  
     
  • Submit Form 14039 along with: valid government-issued ID, proof of current address, and a copy of your prior-year tax return.
     
  • Request an Identity Protection (IP) PIN from the IRS and freeze your credit with all three major credit bureaus for added security.
CP167 The IRS has filed a Substitute for Return (SFR) on your behalf due to a missing tax return. This return is based on limited income data and excludes most deductions and credits.
  • File your original return with all necessary schedules as soon as possible.
     
  • If disputing the IRS’s version, submit Form 1040-X (amended return) with supporting income and deduction documents.
     
  • Resolve any balance due through IRS Direct Pay or an Installment Agreement (Form 9465).
Letter 5043 This notice indicates an ACA penalty due to incorrect or late filings of Form 1095-C by Applicable Large Employers (ALEs).
  • File corrected 1095-C forms through the AIR (Affordable Care Act Information Returns) System.
     
  • Submit Form 14764 to respond and request penalty relief.
     
  • Maintain documentation supporting reasonable cause, such as technical issues or system failures.
Letter 99C This notice is sent when the IRS did not receive Form 8962 to reconcile the Premium Tax Credit for your Marketplace health coverage.
  • Retrieve Form 1095-A from your Health Insurance Marketplace account.
     
  • Complete Form 8962, focusing on Part IV.
     
  • Submit the form along with supporting documents such as proof of income changes and family size verification.
CP2005 IRS notice indicating additional time needed to process your tax return and refund due to incomplete information, potential errors, identity verification, or random review selection.
  • Review your return for missing forms or math errors.
     
  • Wait up to 60 days; most reviews resolve within this period.
     
  • If no update after 60 days, call the IRS at 800-829-1040 and track refund via “Where’s My Refund?”.
CP080 Notice informing you that your tax refund was reduced or denied due to application toward outstanding debts like federal tax, child support, state tax, or other federal non-tax debts (e.g., student loans).
  • Verify the offset by checking the Treasury Offset Program (TOP) and your IRS Tax Account Transcript.
     
  • Dispute the offset by contacting the agency listed and submitting proof if paid or an error occurred.
     
  • Resolve or repay the debt by arranging payment or requesting a refund if the offset was incorrect.
CP162 IRS notice proposing changes due to unreported income, math errors, or disallowed credits/deductions.
  • Review the proposed changes by comparing IRS adjustments with your original return and request your Wage & Income Transcript.
     
  • If you agree, pay the revised amount using IRS Direct Pay or other options.
     
  • If you disagree, file Form 1040-X with supporting documents and consider requesting First-Time Penalty Abatement if eligible.

CP134B

This balance due notice alerts you that there is a discrepancy in the amount of federal tax deposits credited to your account from the amount reported on your tax return, and to make payment by the pay-by-date listed on the notice.

  •  Identify the creditor agency listed on the notice (e.g., student loans, child support).

  • Contact the agency to confirm the debt amount and remaining balance.

  • Discuss repayment options or ways to resolve the debt, as the IRS cannot reverse the offset.

  • Keep the notice for your records and make sure your tax return was filed correctly.

  • Pay the balance in full to avoid additional interest or penalties.

  • If you think there’s a mistake, call 800-829-0115. Have your payment details and a copy of your tax return ready. 

 CP171


 

 The IRS sends this notice to remind you about the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. 

  •  Pay the full amount due in order to avoid penalty and interest charges.

  • If you are unable to pay the entire amount, you can set up a payment plan (installment agreement) either online or by phone.

  • Carefully review the notice to verify that the amount owed and the payments applied are accurate. 

  • To clarify or resolve any differences in the amount due, call 800-829-3903

 

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