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How to Handle Tax Notices: What Not to Do

Few things ignite stress faster than receiving a letter from the IRS or your state tax agency. The distinct logo, the formal language, and the immediate worry that something may be amiss all contribute to the anxiety.

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Before reacting, take a moment to breathe. Much of the stress surrounding IRS and state tax notices stems not from the notices themselves but from the hasty reactions they often trigger.

This guide offers a contrarian perspective on what not to do when receiving a tax notice—and explains the benefits of a measured response.

Don’t Assume You’re in Deep Trouble

Tax agencies issue millions of notices annually. These can often be:

  • Requests for additional information

  • Automated error notifications

  • Follow-ups on missing data

  • Notices of balances due that may overlook recent payments

An official notice is not an indictment. Often, it’s an automated communication seeking verification or correction.

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Assuming the worst without understanding the letter's intent only fuels unnecessary stress.

Don’t Ignore Government Correspondence

Ignoring a tax notice can quickly escalate a minor issue into a substantial problem. Unanswered notices can result in:

  • Missed deadlines for responding

  • Accrual of additional penalties and interest

  • Limited options for resolving the issue

This rule applies to both IRS and state agency notices. Some state agencies may proceed and enforce more aggressively than the IRS after deadlines are missed.

Don’t Call Without a Strategic Plan

This advice might surprise you. Calling the tax agency without fully understanding your notice can:

  • Solidify incorrect assumptions

  • Lead to partial or inconsistent explanations

  • Complicate matters if the issue has layers beyond initial perceptions

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Government agencies operate strictly by procedure. Discussing without preparation is more likely to confuse than clarify.

Don’t Send a Payment Just to "Resolve" It

One of the costliest mistakes is sending a payment without verifying the notice’s accuracy. Paying prematurely can:

  • Result in overpayments

  • Overlook potential credits or necessary adjustments

  • Forfeit the right to contest inaccuracies

Rectifying errors post-payment can be significantly more challenging.

Don’t Rush to File an Amended Return

While important, amended returns require strategic submission. Premature filings can:

  • Prolong processing times

  • Prompt additional scrutiny

  • Lead to further issues if not prepared correctly

Amendments should be calculated, not impulsive.

Don’t Assume It’s a DIY Task

Though some notices are straightforward, others may not be. Seemingly minor discrepancies might reveal underlying:

  • Withholding inaccuracies

  • Reporting discrepancies

  • Problems with estimated taxes

  • Errors carried forward from prior years

Attempting a solo approach can increase pressure, especially with looming deadlines and enforcement timelines.

What You Should Do Instead

Effectively addressing a notice usually begins with:

  1. Carefully reading the communication

  2. Understanding precisely what the tax agency requires

  3. Responding accurately within the designated timeframe

Guidance is particularly beneficial when emotions are running high.

The Final Word

Receiving a correspondence from the IRS or a state tax authority is unsettling but need not be paralyzing. Most problems arise from panic, assumptions, or rash actions rather than the notice itself.

If you have received a tax notice, reach out to our office before taking any action. Our involvement at an early stage allows us to assess the notice, clarify what is required, and help you resolve the issue calmly and effectively.

Important Disclosure

This article serves as a general educational resource only and does not constitute legal advice. Tax communications vary, and individual cases may differ. For legal advice, consult a qualified attorney. For help responding to tax notices, get in touch with your tax professional.

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