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CP141L notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP141L 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 CP141L notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
You didn't file your return by the due date.
What you need to do
Send us the amount due by the date on the notice to avoid interest charges.
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
You may be able to remove the penalties
If you had no penalties in the 3 tax years before, filed all required returns, and paid or arranged to pay the tax, the IRS First-Time Abatement policy can remove failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties. You can ask in writing or by phone.
Cannot pay it all now? Ask for a payment plan
You can apply for a payment plan on irs.gov. Interest keeps running until the balance is paid, so pay what you can now.
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
- If you think you may have reasonable cause for filing your return late, you need to provide a signed explanation outlining the circumstances which resulted in not filing your return timely.
- Visit Annual filing requirements for information on annual filing requirements.
- Visit E-file for charities and nonprofits for more information on E-filing returns.
Common questions
Q. What if I disagree with the penalty?
A. Send a written statement outlining the circumstances which resulted in not filing your return timely to the address at the top of your notice.
Get my response letter for CP141L notice