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CP298 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP298 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 CP298 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We are notifying you of our intent to levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes.
What you need to do
- Read your notice carefully. It explains our actions.
- Pay what you owe .
- Request a payment plan if you can't pay the full amount you owe.
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
The IRS says it may take money or property
Pay, set up a payment plan, or call before the date on the notice to stop the next step. A final notice with your right to a hearing comes before most levies.
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
- Learn how to submit an Offer in Compromise .
- Fill out and send us a Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative PDF , to allow someone (such as an accountant) to contact us on your behalf.
Common questions
Should I contact the Social Security Administration (SSA)?
No, contact the number listed on the notice. The SSA can't stop the levy or assist you in resolving the tax issue.
What happens if I can't pay what I owe? (updated Nov. 21, 2025)
You can apply online for a payment plan (including installment agreements).
Helpful information
- People First Initiative FAQs: Liens, Levies and Other Collection Activities
- Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process PDF
- Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request PDF
- Form 12153, Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing PDF
- Notice 746, Information About Your Notice, Penalty and Interest PDF