Receiving a notice from the IRS can be concerning, especially if you don’t understand what it means. One such notice is the CP12 Notice. This guide will help you understand what the CP12 Notice is, why you might receive it, and what steps you need to take.
What is a CP12 Notice?
The CP12 Notice is an official letter from the IRS that informs you of corrections made to your tax return. These corrections can result in a different refund amount than you initially expected. The notice will indicate whether you are due a refund or if your original refund amount has changed.
What You Need to Do When You Receive a CP12 Notice
Review the Notice Carefully
First and foremost, review the notice carefully. Compare the changes the IRS made to the information on your original tax return. This will help you understand the specific corrections they made.
If You Agree with the Changes
If you agree with the changes the IRS made, no response is required. You should receive your adjusted refund check within 4-6 weeks, provided you don’t owe other taxes or debts that the IRS is required to collect. It’s also a good idea to correct the copy of your tax return that you kept for your records, but do not send this corrected copy back to the IRS.
If You Disagree with the Changes
If you don’t agree with the changes, contact the IRS within 60 days from the date of your notice. You can do this by calling the toll-free number shown on your notice or by sending a letter to the address provided in the notice. Be sure to include a copy of the notice along with any correspondence or documentation you send.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the CP12 Notice from the IRS is crucial for addressing any corrections made to your tax return. If you agree with the changes, no action is needed, and you should receive your refund within a few weeks. If you disagree, promptly contact the IRS to discuss and possibly reverse the changes. Always keep a copy of your original tax return for your records and take note of the deadlines to ensure you can exercise your rights.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why Did I Receive This Notice?
You received a CP12 Notice because the IRS corrected one or more mistakes on your tax return. This could mean your overpayment amount is different than expected, or you have an overpayment when you thought you owed money or had an even balance.
How Can I Find Out What Caused My Tax Return to Change?
Read your CP12 Notice carefully. If you need additional clarification, call the number provided on your notice. The IRS representatives can help explain the changes to your tax return.
What Should I Do If I Disagree with the Changes?
If you disagree with the changes, contact the IRS at the toll-free number shown on the top right corner of your notice. You can also respond by mail to the address on your notice. If you choose to write, include a copy of the notice along with any relevant documents or explanations.
Reversing Changes Made by the IRS
The IRS will reverse most changes they made if they reduced the refund requested on your return. However, you must contact them within 60 days from the date of your notice to request the reversal. You don’t need to provide an explanation or additional documents when requesting the reversal, but any information you provide will be considered. If the IRS does not receive information that supports your original return, they may forward your case for an audit. In this case, audit staff will contact you within six weeks to explain the process and your rights.
What If I Miss the 60-Day Deadline?
If you don’t contact the IRS within the 60-day period, any changes made to reduce your refund will not be reversed. You will lose the right to appeal the decision in the U.S. Tax Court. Instead, you may file a claim for a refund to dispute the changes. Generally, you must submit this claim within three years from the date you filed the tax return, or within two years from the date of your last payment for this tax, whichever is later.
