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CP547 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP547 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 CP547 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We received your Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative, Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization, or Form 706, U.S. Estate Tax Return, authorizing you to act or receive information on a taxpayer’s behalf. Because of this, we assigned you a Centralized Authorization File (CAF) number.
What you need to do
Use your CAF number on future authorizations and when contacting the IRS about a taxpayer you represent.
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.
You may want to
- Keep your CAF number in a safe place for future reference.
- Notify the IRS if this was assigned without your knowledge.
Common questions
What is a CAF number? (updated Mar. 27, 2026)
It’s a unique nine-digit identification number you’re assigned the first time you file a third-party authorization with the IRS.
What if I already have a CAF number? (added Mar. 27, 2026)
If you’re assigned more than one CAF number that you didn’t request, send us a copy of each CP547 using the fax number listed on your notice. Protect yourself when sending digital data. Understand your fax service’s privacy and security policies.
What should I do if I don’t remember my CAF number? (updated Mar. 27, 2026)
Call Practitioner Priority Services (PPS) at 866-860-4259 . PPS service hours are weekdays 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time . Alaska and Hawaii follow Pacific time. Puerto Rico service hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time .
Once you’re verified, your CAF number can be provided over the phone. If we can’t verify you, we’ll send a letter to the representative’s address on file.
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