The IRS sends many letters. These letters cover various tax matters. Knowing how to reply is vital. Use these samples as a guide. Ensure accurate, prompt response.
Dealing with IRS notices is often scary. You might receive audit notices. Or maybe payment demands are sent. Sample letters offer a starting point. Adjust them to your situation.
Proper documentation matters greatly. Include forms and receipts. Always keep copies of everything. This helps track correspondence with IRS. Accuracy is crucially important here.
Use registered mail safely. Get a return receipt always. This ensures the IRS received it. This provides legal proof of delivery. Proof helps prevent later disputes.
IRS Letter Samples
Sample 1: Responding to a Notice of Deficiency
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
RE: Notice of Deficiency - [Your SSN or EIN]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing in response to the Notice of Deficiency dated [Date of Notice] regarding tax year [Tax Year]. I disagree with the proposed adjustments. I have enclosed documentation to support my original filing.
Specifically, [Explain your reason for disagreement and reference supporting documents].
I request a review of my supporting documentation and a reconsideration of the proposed deficiency.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Requesting a Payment Plan (Installment Agreement)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
RE: Request for Installment Agreement - [Your SSN or EIN]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to request an installment agreement for my outstanding tax liability for the tax year [Tax Year], totaling $[Amount Owed].
I am unable to pay the full amount at this time due to [briefly explain your financial hardship]. I propose to pay $[Proposed Monthly Payment] per month until the balance is paid in full.
I have enclosed Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, as instructed. I understand that interest and penalties will continue to accrue until the debt is satisfied.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Responding to an Audit Notification
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
Attention: [Auditor's Name, if known]
RE: Audit Notification - [Your SSN or EIN] - Tax Year [Tax Year]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing in response to your audit notification dated [Date of Notification] regarding my tax return for the year [Tax Year].
I will fully cooperate with your audit. I am available to meet on [List available dates/times] or provide the requested documentation via mail/electronically.
Please let me know the specific documents you require. I have kept records to support my original tax filing.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Disputing a Penalty
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
RE: Penalty Abatement Request - [Your SSN or EIN] - Tax Year [Tax Year]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to request abatement of the penalty assessed on [Date of Notice] for [Reason for Penalty - e.g., late filing, late payment] for the tax year [Tax Year].
I believe the penalty should be abated because [Explain the reason for requesting abatement - e.g., reasonable cause, first-time penalty abatement]. [Clearly state your reason and provide supporting evidence. e.g., "I filed late due to a serious illness which required hospitalization. I have attached a doctor's note as proof."]
I request that you review my case and grant a penalty abatement.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Providing Additional Information Requested by the IRS
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
Attention: [Auditor's Name, if known]
RE: Request for Information - [Your SSN or EIN] - Tax Year [Tax Year]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing in response to your letter dated [Date of Letter] requesting additional information regarding my tax return for the year [Tax Year].
Please find attached the following documents as requested: [List the documents you are providing]. These documents provide clarification regarding [Explain what the documents clarify].
I hope this information is sufficient. If you require any further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
These letter samples offer good starting points. Always tailor each sample carefully. Ensure it aligns precisely with your individual situation. Consult a tax professional for advice if you have doubts or uncertainties. Seeking expert help is vital.