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CP81 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP81 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 CP81 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We received payments or other credits for the tax return shown on your notice, but we haven’t received your tax return for that year. The period for claiming a refund or credit for that tax year may expire soon.
What you need to do
- If youneed to file this tax return, file immediately. We’ll use the credit amount shown on the notice to pay any taxes you owe and refund any extra.
- If you’ve already filed this return and it's been over 8 weeks, send us a newly signed copy, including all schedules, forms and other documents you included with your original return.
- If you want the credit moved to another tax form, tax period or tax identification number, call us at the number on your notice.
- If you don’t file your tax return or contact us, you’ll lose your credit. The law sets strict time limits for refunding or transferring credits.
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 may be able to remove the penalties
If you had no penalties in the 3 tax years before, filed all required returns, and paid or arranged to pay the tax, the IRS First-Time Abatement policy can remove failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties. You can ask in writing or by phone.
Cannot pay it all now? Ask for a payment plan
You can apply for a payment plan on irs.gov. Interest keeps running until the balance is paid, so pay what you can now.
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
Call 800-TAX-FORM ( 800-829-3676 ) to order forms and publications or visit the Forms, instructions & publications page to download them.
Common questions
How long do I have to file a tax return to claim a refund? (updated June 5, 2025)
Generally, you must file a tax return within 3 years from the due date of the return (including extensions) to receive a refund of any overpayment on your account. After the refund statute expiration date (RSED) expires, we can’t refund any overpayments.
Where do I send my return?
Send it to the address shown on the notice.
What should I do if I just filed my tax return? (updated June 5, 2025)
You don’t have to do anything if you filed within the last 8 weeks.
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