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CP87C notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP87C 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 CP87C notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
You claimed a dependent on your tax return with reported gross income for more than the deduction amount for a dependent. Someone else also claimed this dependent with the same Social Security number on another tax return.
You can’t claim someone whose gross income exceeds the deduction amount for a dependent unless that person is permanently and totally disabled at some time during the tax year and his or her income is from services performed at a sheltered workshop.
We listed the last four digits of the Social Security number for each dependent or qualifying child we’re concerned about on the notice for your review.
What you need to do
- Compare the Social Security numbers from your notice with the Social Security card for each dependent or qualifying child you listed on your tax return.
- Review the rules for claiming each dependent or qualifying child. After reviewing the rules: If you find you’re entitled to claim the dependent, you don’t need to write or send anything to us at this time.
- If you find you listed someone who doesn’t qualify as your dependent or qualifying child, you must correct your return by filing a Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return . The instructions for this form will guide you through the steps to correct your return. Mail your amended return to the IRS service center shown in the instructions.
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
- Review this notice with your tax preparer if you used one.
- Review the rules for claiming a dependent or qualifying child in Publication 501, Dependents, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information .
- Keep this notice for your records.
Common questions
Who is the other person that claimed the same dependent as I did on their tax return?
Disclosure laws prohibit us from revealing the name of the taxpayer who used the same social security number as your dependent or qualifying child.
What do I need to send if I am entitled to claim the depended or qualifying child?
You don’t need to take any action or send us any documents at this time.
What if I didn’t file a tax return claiming the dependent or qualifying child and someone else is using my name and Social Security number? (updated Jan. 30, 2025)
Contact us at the number shown on your notice. You can also refer to the IRS Identity theft central page for more information.
Am I being audited?
No, we’re not auditing you at this time.
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