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CP63 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP63 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 CP63 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We're holding your refund because our records show you still haven’t filed one or more tax returns, and we believe you’ll owe additional tax.
What you need to do
File your tax return immediately or explain to us:
- why you're filing late
- why you don't have to file, or
- that you've already filed
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 Collection process: Filing or paying late for what happens when you don't file a return
- Review your records and make sure you filed all your prior returns. Download copies of prior year tax returns and products .
- 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 offers in compromise .
- Check to see that you have enough money withheld from your paycheck to pay your taxes. The Tax Withholding Estimator can help.
Common questions
What should I do if I disagree with the notice, I didn't file my tax return, or it's been more than eight weeks since I filed it? (updated September 18, 2025)
Call us at the toll-free number on your notice. Please have your paperwork ready when you call. If you prefer, you can write to usat the address on your notice.
What should I do if I've just filed my tax return?
You don't have to do anything if you filed your tax return(s) within the last eight weeks.
What happens if I can't pay the full amount I owe when I file my return?
You may qualify for a payment plan if you can't pay the full amount you owe. You can apply for a payment plan online to pay off your balance over time.
If we determine you owe tax on any return(s) you file, we may use all or part of your refund to help pay it.
When will my refund be released?
We’ll continue to hold your refund until we hear from you. We can release your refund when we have received all past due returns, or an explanation showing you did not have to file for those years.
Get my response letter for CP63 notice