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CP518B notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP518B 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 CP518B notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
This is a final reminder notice that we still have no record that you filed your prior tax returns.
What you need to do
- Send a signed paper tax return with all required schedules.
- Complete and return the Response form enclosed with your notice. Use it to explain one of the following: The reason you’re filing late.
- Explain why you believe you don’t need to file or that you already filed and more than four weeks have passed.
- That you filed with a different name or employer ID number (EIN) than the one shown on your notice.
- If you filed within the last four weeks using the same name and EIN shown on your notice, you may disregard this notice.
How to send your information
- Use the enclosed envelope to respond or fax your documents to 855-800-5944 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 we don't hear from you
- We may determine your tax for you. Penalty and interest can continue to accrue.
- If you're owed a refund for the current tax year, or any prior year, 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 the Collection Procedures for Taxpayers Filing and/or Paying Late .
- Verify you filed all your prior returns. Download copies of prior year tax returns and products .
- Check to see that you have enough withholding 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.
- Learn more about payment plans and installment agreements .
- Learn more about an Offer in Compromise .
Common questions
Call us at the toll-free number shown on your notice. Have your paperwork ready when you call.
You don't have to do anything if you filed your tax return within the last 8 weeks.
Sign, date and mail us a copy of the tax return with the completed Response form which was included with your notice. Make sure your name, social security number and tax year match on your return and notice.
You can request a payment plan .
Get my response letter for CP518B notice