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CP75A notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP75A 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 CP75A notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We're auditing your tax return and need documentation to verify the Earned Income Credit (EIC), dependents and filing status you claimed.
What you need to do
- Read the notice and the enclosed forms carefully. They explain the information you must send to us.
- Provide copies of the documentation we request to verify the items we're auditing.
- Complete the Response form by showing which items your supporting documentation addresses and return the form with the documents you are submitting either by: Faxing your documents to the fax number in the notice using either a fax machine or an online fax service. Protect yourself when sending digital data by understanding the fax service’s privacy and security policies, or
- Mailing your response to the address shown on the Response form.
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
Send the documents the IRS asks for
Make copies, number the pages, and send them so they arrive by the date on your letter. If you need more time, call before the date and ask for it.
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 this notice with your tax preparer.
- Review the rules for claiming the EIC and make sure that your child meets the relationship, age, residency, and joint return tests to qualify for the credit. Read more about the qualifying child rules .
- Find out if you can claim the EIC if you don't have a qualifying child. Find the rules for those without a qualifying child here .
- Call us for assistance at the telephone number listed on your notice.
Common questions
Why was my return selected for audit?
While we accept most returns as filed, we select some for examination. We examine (or audit) some federal tax returns to determine if income, expenses, and credits are being reported accurately. We select returns for examination using various methods including random sampling, computerized screening, and comparison of information we receive such as Forms W-2 and 1099. Having your return selected for examination doesn't suggest that you made an error or were dishonest.
Can I claim the credit for my fiancé’s child?
No. You must be married to the child’s parent during the tax year in question to receive the credit.
What do I need to send?
Refer to the enclosed forms we sent with your notice. A separate form for each audited item explains what supporting documentation you must send.
What if I can’t provide the requested documentation?
We'll disallow the audited items and send you an examination report showing the proposed changes to your tax return.
What if I did not file a tax return claiming the items you are questioning and someone else is using my name and Social Security number?
Contact us at the telephone number listed on your notice. You can also refer to our identity theft page for more information.
Can I file my tax return while being audited?
Yes, you should continue to file all required tax returns before the due date to avoid additional penalties and interest.
Helpful information
- Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax
- Publication 596, Earned Income Credit PDF
- Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education PDF
- Publication 972, Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents PDF
- Publication 3498-A, The Examination Process (Audits by Mail) PDF
- Publication 3598, The Audit Reconsideration Process PDF