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CP591 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP591 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 CP591 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
This notice is sent when you use a tax return preparer and you may have incorrectly claimed one or more of the following tax benefits on your tax return:
- Earned Income Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit/Additional Child Tax Credit/Credit for Other Dependents
- American Opportunity Tax Credit
- Head of household filing status
This notice informs you of potential errors on your tax return and reminds you that you’re ultimately responsible for the accuracy of it. Inaccurate tax returns are subject to audit by the IRS and may result in you being banned from claiming certain credits in the future.
What you need to do
- Review your tax return.
- File Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return , if you need to fix any mistakes.
- Consider using a new preparer, completing future tax returns yourself, or using the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA ) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs, which offer free tax return preparation help from community volunteers for taxpayers who qualify.
Helpful information
We'll check returns you file in the future to make sure they’re correct when you claim these benefits. Learn more about choosing a tax return preparer on our help page .
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
You have 60 days to disagree
If you disagree with the change and ask in writing within 60 days of the notice date, the law requires the IRS to reverse it. If the IRS still disagrees, it must then use the regular process, which keeps your appeal rights.
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.
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