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CP518 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP518 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 CP518 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
This is your final reminder; we still don’t have a record that you filed your prior year tax returns.
What you need to do
Immediately respond to the notice by:
- Filing your tax return with the completed Form 15103, Form 1040 Return Delinquency PDF to explain: Why you’re filing late; or
- That you’ve already filed.
- Completing Form 15103, Form 1040 Return Delinquency PDF to explain: Why you don't have to file.
Return the completed Form 15103 and tax return, if applicable to the address on your notice. You can fax it to the number in the notice using either a fax machine or online fax service. Protect yourself when sending digital data by understanding the fax service’s privacy and security policies. If you’re only sending a completed Form 15103 to explain why you don’t have to file, you can submit it online. An IRS Online Account (OLA) is required.
If we don't hear from you
- We may determine your tax for you.
- Penalty and interest may continue to accrue.
- If you are owed a refund, it may be delayed because of this unfiled return.
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
File the missing return, or explain why you did not have to
If you already filed, send a copy and the date you filed. If you were not required to file, say why. Otherwise file now: the IRS may prepare a return for you without your deductions.
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
- Review what happens when you don't file a tax return by reviewing the following: Filing past due returns
- Collection process for taxpayers filing and/or paying late
We accept returns electronically for the 2 most recent prior years. However, you must locate an e-file provider who offers the service to do so.
- Check to see that you have enough money withheld from your paycheck to pay your taxes. The Tax Withholding Estimator can help.
- Learn more about: Your payment options if you owe additional taxes on your return.
- Payment plans and installment agreements
- Offer in compromise
Common questions
Call us at the toll-free number on your notice. Please have your notice and account information available when you call. You can also respond by returning Form 15103.
You don't have to do anything if you filed your tax return within the last 8 weeks.
Complete Form 15103. Make sure the name, Social Security number (SSN), and year on your return match. Send us a signed, dated copy of the tax return with Form 15103.
File your return anyway. You can request a payment plan to pay your balance over time.
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