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Letter 6591: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS Letter 6591? 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 6591 freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
You may qualify to receive the Child Tax Credit (CTC), or receive additional Child Tax Credit, for 2021, but you need to file a 2021 income tax return to claim the credit. This change is just for 2021 and allows you to receive the credit even if you had little or no income in 2021.
What you need to do
Follow the If/Then chart shown on your letter to determine any next actions.
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
- Learn more about the 2021 Child Tax Credit provisions and review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the credit.
- Review the general rules for claiming the Child Tax Credit .
- Download any needed forms and publications online .
Common questions
I received advance payments of the CTC as monthly payments in 2021. How can I receive the remaining amount?
If you received advance payments of the credit, you need to reconcile (compare) the total you received with the amount you're eligible to claim.
To reconcile advance payments on your 2021 return:
- Get your advance payments total and number of qualifying children from your online account .
- Enter that information on a 2021 Form 1040 (Schedule 8812), Credits for Qualifying Children and Other Dependents PDF .
- File your 2021 Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return PDF , with the Schedule 8812 PDF and any other supporting forms, schedules, and documentation to receive the remaining credit.