Receiving a letter from the IRS can be alarming. But thousands of Americans receive IRS notices every day, and most have simple solutions.

Stay calm and read the notice carefully, as it likely concerns a balance due. The IRS offers tax forgiveness programs that may reduce or even eliminate your debt, but your options depend on how quickly you take action. 

When taxpayers fill out our Tax Relief Survey, they are able to see if they qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program and begin their journey toward tax resolution in minutes.

How to Handle an IRS Notice

1. If you can easily afford to pay the balance, paying before the deadline listed on the notice will help you avoid additional penalties and interest fees.

2. If you cannot afford to pay the balance, you may qualify for tax forgiveness programs that help settle your tax debt for less than the full amount.

3. If you disagree with the balance due or are uncertain how to respond, a trusted tax professional can help you understand the notice and advise you on how to proceed.

Take this 60-second Quiz to See if You Qualify for IRS Tax Forgiveness and Speak to a Trusted Professional

Understanding the Problem

The IRS sends letters for various reasons, from balance notifications to refund adjustments, and receiving one doesn't always indicate a problem. Carefully review the notice date, required actions, and specific issues being addressed.

Finding Your Solution

You typically have 30 days to respond to an IRS notice, and missing this deadline can result in additional penalties, interest charges, and loss of appeal rights.

If you're uncertain about how to handle your IRS notice, seek advice from a trusted tax professional who can analyze your situation and develop a personalized response strategy. Tax professionals can negotiate with the IRS, help reduce penalties, and establish manageable payment plans while protecting your taxpayer rights.

Watch out for scams: The IRS will first contact you through U.S. mail, never through email, social media, or threatening phone calls.

Take the Next Step

If you've received an IRS notice and owe federal back taxes, the IRS will continue to assess penalties and interest charges on your account until you resolve the problem.

However, it is 100% free to see if you qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program, and a few minutes could help you save thousands. Take the quick survey below to discover which Fresh Start benefits you may be eligible for.