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CP09 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP09 notice? Here is what it means, your deadline, what to check before you answer, and how to reply. Check your own letter free: it stays on your phone.
Check my CP09 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
You may be eligible for the Earned Income Credit but didn't claim it on your tax return.
What you need to do
- Read your CP09 notice carefully.
- Tax year 2025: Complete Earned Income Credit worksheet on Form 15111, Earned Income Credit (CP09) PDF of the notice.
- Tax year 2024: Complete Earned Income Credit worksheet on Form 15111, Earned Income Credit (CP09) PDF of the notice. If the worksheet confirms you’re eligible for the credit, Mail the signed worksheet in the envelope provided with your notice.
- If you're not eligible for the credit, Do not return the Form 15111 PDF to us.
Your deadline
Answer by the date printed on your notice. If there is no date, answer as soon as you can, and call the number on the notice if you need more time.
What to check before you answer
Is this letter really from the IRS?
The IRS writes first by mail. A real letter shows a notice or letter number, your name and part of your tax ID number. The IRS does not ask for payment by gift card, crypto or wire transfer. If in doubt, sign in to your IRS online account, where many notices are listed.
How to reply
Send us your documents using the Documentation Upload Tool within 30 days from the date of this notice. Enter the access code from your notice to use the tool.
You may want to
- Download Publication 596, Earned Income Credit .
- Review EITC for more information.
- Other resources that may be helpful to you: Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)
- Publication 501, Dependents, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information
Common questions
What is the Earned Income Credit (EIC)?
The EIC is a credit for certain people who work and have earned income. The credit may give you a refund even if you do not owe any tax.
If I'm eligible for the credit, when will I receive my refund?
We’ll mail you a refund check in 6-8 weeks if you don’t owe tax or other debts we’re required to collect. If we deny the credit, we’ll send you a letter of explanation. If you don't hear from us after 8 weeks, you can call our toll-free line at 800-829-0922 to check the status.
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