Federal tax response checklist
Got an IRS letter?
Most IRS correspondence is a request, proposed change or notice with a specific response path. Start by preserving the record and finding the controlling date—not by calling a number from memory or sending everything you have.
Preserve the complete notice
Keep every page and the envelope. Scan or photograph both sides clearly. Do not write on the original.
Identify the agency and notice number
Confirm that it is actually from the IRS. Record the notice or letter number, tax form, tax period, taxpayer name and any response address shown.
Find every date
Mark the notice date, response deadline, payment date and any appeal or petition deadline. Different rights can expire on different dates.
Separate “what they say” from “what you know”
Write a short comparison. What income, payment, filing status, credit, deduction or return does the notice address? Which part do you agree or disagree with?
Gather only the relevant records
Start with the return, schedules, notices, payment confirmations and source documents tied to the issue. Do not casually email Social Security numbers, full returns or account credentials.
Check for identity-theft or payment red flags
Be cautious if the letter demands unusual payment methods, threatens immediate arrest, or directs payment somewhere other than an official government channel. Verify contact information through IRS.gov.
Decide whether you need representation
Consider professional help when facts are disputed, records are incomplete, penalties are material, multiple years are involved, collection action is possible, or appeal and court rights may expire.
Keep a response log
Record calls, names, identification numbers, dates, fax or certified-mail confirmations and copies of everything submitted. Keep the response package together.
What to bring to the first conversation
- The full notice and envelope
- The return and schedules for the affected period
- A one-paragraph explanation of what appears wrong or unclear
- Relevant payment and source-document records
- The nearest deadline