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CP116 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP116 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 CP116 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We believe you have miscalculations on your return. The changes we made resulted in a refund.
What you need to do
- Compare the figures on your tax return with the figures on the notice.
- Make the changes to your copy of your tax return for your records.
- Pay the amount you owe by the date on the notice's payment coupon.
- Contact us in writing within 60 days if you don’t agree with the changes.
Your deadline
The IRS page for this notice mentions 60 days. Always use the date printed on your own notice.
What to check before you answer
You have 60 days to disagree
If you disagree with the change and ask in writing within 60 days of the notice date, the law requires the IRS to reverse it. If the IRS still disagrees, it must then use the regular process, which keeps your appeal rights.
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.
You may want to
Call us at the phone number on the notice if you changed your address.
Common questions
What if I do not agree with the changes?
Contact us within 60 days in writing. We’ll review your information and reverse the changes we made to your account if you can show we made a mistake.
What if I do not have documentation to justify the reversal of changes?
We will forward the case for audit. The auditor will contact you within 5 to 6 weeks to fully explain the process.
Get my response letter for CP116 notice