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Letter 12C: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS Letter 12C? 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 Letter 12C freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We need more information to process your individual income tax return. Information needed could be:
- Missing or corrected forms or schedules to support your entries on Form 1040, U.S. Individual Tax Form or Form 1040-SR, U.S. Income Tax Return for Seniors .
- Verification of income, withholding and credit amounts.
- Verification of taxpayer identification numbers or Social Security numbers.
We’ll send any refund due about 6-8 weeks after we receive your response.
What you need to do
- Read your letter carefully.
- Send the information we requested within 20 days.
- Respond to the letter, even if you disagree, providing a clear explanation of what you disagree with.
- Do not file a Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
Your deadline
The IRS page for this notice mentions 20 days. Always use the date printed on your own notice.
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.
Get my response letter for Letter 12C