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CP53 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP53 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 CP53 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We couldn’t direct deposit your refund, so we're sending you a refund check by mail.
What you need to do
Your refund should arrive 4 weeks from the date of your notice. Call the number on your notice if you haven't received your refund check after 4 weeks.
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
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
Can the IRS send me a direct deposit refund for my return from two years ago?
We can direct deposit refunds only for the current filing year and 2 prior tax years. We pay all other refunds by check.
I just moved. Can you recall the check and send a new one to my new address?
We mail refund checks only to the address of record, which is the address shown on the tax return or the result of a permanent address change request you submitted after you filed the return. You can request a change of address by calling the number on your notice, or by filing Form 8822, Change of Address PDF .
How do I get my refund through direct deposit next year?
When filing your tax return, complete the requested banking information in the "Refund" section of your tax form if you want to direct deposit the entire amount into one account. If you want to deposit into more than one account, you must file Form 8888, Allocation of Refund (Including Savings Bond Purchases) PDF , with your return.
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