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CP216H notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP216H 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 CP216H notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We denied your request to extend the time to file Form 5500 series and/or Form 8955-SSA, Annual Registration Statement Identifying Separated Participants with Deferred Vested Benefits , because we didn’t receive your Form 5558, Application for Extension of Time to File Certain Employee Plan Returns on time.
We must receive the request for an extension of the time to file Form 5500 series and/or Form 8955-SSA on or before the due date of your return.
What you need to do
- File your required Form 5500 series and 8955-SSA as soon as possible to minimize any penalty or interest charges for filing late. Keep a copy of this notice for your records.
What to consider before filing your return
You may want to consider a penalty relief program. For more information on penalty relief visit:
- Penalty Relief Program for Form 5500-EZ Late Filers
- Penalty Relief for DOL DFVC Filers of Late Annual Reports
- Form 5500-EZ, Delinquent Filing Penalty Relief Frequently Asked Questions
- Correction Programs
As an alternative, you may request penalty relief due to reasonable cause by attaching an explanation to your return. If your request is denied, you’ll be responsible for all applicable penalties and the return will no longer be eligible for a penalty relief program.
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.
Common questions
Where can I go for more information about Employee Benefit Plans?
Review the filing requirement for your organization at Retirement Plans Community .
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