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CP721 Notice: How to Respond to IRS Tax Adjustments

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Last updated 11/01/2024 by
SuperMoney Team
Fact checked by
Ante Mazalin
Summary:
The CP721 notice from the IRS is sent when adjustments are made to a taxpayer’s return due to an error or changes requested by the IRS or taxpayer. The notice informs the recipient of changes and typically results in a balance due on taxes. Understanding why the IRS issued this notice and knowing how to respond is essential for preventing further complications, penalties, or interest charges. This article provides a detailed guide on handling a CP721 notice efficiently.
Receiving a letter from the IRS can trigger stress, especially when the notice indicates that you owe additional taxes. One such letter, the CP721 notice, alerts you that the IRS has made adjustments to your tax return, leading to an outstanding balance. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including clerical errors or mismatches in reported income. While receiving a CP721 notice might be alarming, it is important to understand why it was issued, what the changes mean, and how to resolve any tax liability.
In this article, we will explore what a CP721 notice is, why it’s issued, the steps you need to take upon receiving it, and the potential consequences of ignoring it. Armed with this knowledge, you can take the necessary actions to resolve the issue quickly.

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What is a CP721 notice?

A CP721 notice is sent by the IRS to inform taxpayers that changes have been made to their tax return for a specified tax year. This can occur for a number of reasons, including the IRS discovering discrepancies in the tax return or receiving additional information that was not initially reported. Common reasons for receiving a CP721 notice include:
  • Discrepancies between reported income and third-party reports (e.g., W-2, 1099 forms).
  • Adjustments made due to unreported income.
  • Changes resulting from a taxpayer’s request for corrections or amendments.
  • Errors discovered during IRS audits or reviews.
The primary purpose of the CP721 notice is to alert the taxpayer to these changes and inform them of the resulting balance due. In most cases, this notice results in additional taxes owed, and it’s essential to address the matter promptly to avoid further penalties or interest.
Struggling with IRS notices? If you’ve received an IRS letter and aren’t sure how to handle it, you might want to explore professional tax relief options. Optima Tax Relief has helped thousands of people resolve their tax issues and get back on track with the IRS. Learn more about how they can assist you with your situation.

Why did you receive a CP721 notice?

Receiving a CP721 notice typically means that the IRS has made adjustments to your tax return that resulted in a higher tax liability. The notice will provide a detailed explanation of the changes, which could stem from several causes, including:

Income discrepancies

One of the most common reasons for receiving a CP721 notice is a mismatch between the income you reported on your tax return and the income reported by third parties (such as employers or financial institutions). For example, if a W-2 or 1099 form shows higher income than what you reported, the IRS will adjust your return to reflect the correct income, leading to a balance due.

Unreported income

Another potential reason for the CP721 notice is unreported income. If you failed to include certain income sources on your original return, such as rental income, interest, or dividends, the IRS will make adjustments accordingly. This will likely result in a higher tax bill.

Changes made by the taxpayer

In some cases, a taxpayer may request changes to their return, such as amending it to correct errors or include additional deductions or credits. If these changes result in a higher tax liability, the IRS will issue a CP721 notice to inform you of the updated balance due.

IRS adjustments during audit

If your return was selected for audit and the IRS discovered inaccuracies, they might adjust your tax return. This could result in a CP721 notice that outlines the changes made and informs you of the additional taxes owed.

How the CP721 notice affects you

The CP721 notice indicates that your tax return has been modified, and as a result, you owe additional taxes for the specified tax year. If you don’t take action to address the balance, the IRS may begin adding interest to the amount due and potentially impose penalties for late payment.

Immediate impact

Once you receive the CP721 notice, it’s crucial to understand the changes made to your tax return. Ignoring the notice can lead to compounding interest on the amount owed, as well as penalties for failing to pay on time. Additionally, the IRS could take further collection actions if the balance remains unpaid for an extended period.

Delays in future tax filings

Failing to resolve the balance indicated in your CP721 notice can also cause complications with future tax filings. The IRS might delay the processing of future returns or hold back any refunds until the outstanding balance is settled.

Potential penalties and interest

If the balance remains unpaid, the IRS may apply penalties and interest. Typically, interest begins accruing from the due date of the original tax return until the balance is paid in full. The longer the amount remains unpaid, the higher your liability becomes. It’s important to act swiftly to avoid these additional charges.

Pro tip

  • Respond quickly to IRS notices – The IRS imposes interest and penalties on unpaid balances, so it’s crucial to respond as soon as possible to avoid additional charges.

What to do when you receive a CP721 notice

If you receive a CP721 notice, it’s essential to take prompt action to address the changes and resolve the tax balance. Here are the steps you should follow:
  • Read the notice thoroughly: Make sure you understand the adjustments made by the IRS and why you now owe additional taxes.
  • Verify your tax return: Double-check your records to confirm whether the IRS’s adjustments are accurate. You may want to consult with a tax professional to ensure you didn’t overlook any important details in your original filing.
  • Respond promptly: If the notice is correct, follow the payment instructions provided. You can pay online through the IRS website or by mail. If you disagree with the changes, you have the right to dispute them, but this must be done quickly.
  • Amend your return if necessary: If you realize that there were errors in your original tax return, consider filing an amended return (Form 1040-X) to ensure the IRS has the most accurate information.
  • Contact the IRS if needed: If you need clarification or want to dispute the changes, reach out to the IRS for assistance. You can call the number provided on the notice or visit your local IRS office.

How to respond to the CP721 notice

When responding to a CP721 notice, it’s important to follow the specific instructions outlined in the notice. The IRS will provide a deadline for payment or response, so acting quickly is essential to avoid further penalties. Here are the general steps you should take when responding:

Steps to take when responding to a CP721 notice

1. Review the changes: Carefully examine the changes made by the IRS. The notice will explain why the changes were made and provide you with a breakdown of the revised tax return.
2. Check your records: Compare the IRS’s version of your return with the one you originally submitted. If you believe the changes are incorrect, gather your documentation (e.g., W-2s, 1099s) to support your position.
3. Agree or dispute the notice: If you agree with the changes, you’ll need to pay the amount indicated by the IRS. If you disagree, you’ll need to contact the IRS and provide evidence supporting your claim.
4. Make a payment or set up a payment plan: If the notice results in an amount due, and you agree with the adjustments, you can pay online via the IRS website or set up an installment agreement if you’re unable to pay the full balance.
5. File an amended return if necessary: If you realize that you made a mistake on your original return that led to the notice, file an amended return to correct the errors.

How to pay the balance indicated in the CP721 notice

If you agree with the changes made by the IRS and owe additional taxes, you can pay the balance using one of several methods. Here’s how:
  • Online payment: The IRS allows taxpayers to pay their balance due via their website. Simply visit the IRS’s payment page and follow the instructions to make a payment electronically. This is often the fastest and easiest option.
  • By mail: You can send a check or money order to the IRS along with the payment voucher provided in the CP721 notice. Be sure to include your Social Security number and the tax year on the check.
  • Installment plan: If you cannot pay the full amount at once, the IRS offers installment agreements that allow you to pay the balance in monthly installments. This can be arranged online or by contacting the IRS directly.

Other options if you cannot pay your tax bill

If you’re unable to pay the full amount indicated on your CP721 notice, you still have options:

Request an installment agreement

The IRS offers installment agreements that allow taxpayers to pay off their debt in smaller monthly amounts over a set period. You can apply for an installment agreement online, by mail, or over the phone. Generally, the IRS will work with you to create a payment plan that fits your financial situation. However, interest and penalties will continue to accrue on the unpaid balance until it’s fully paid.

Consider an Offer in Compromise (OIC)

An Offer in Compromise (OIC) allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed. This option is available if you can demonstrate that paying the full tax bill would create a financial hardship. Keep in mind that the IRS only accepts OIC applications under strict guidelines, and approval rates are low. However, if you meet the criteria, it can be an effective way to resolve your tax debt.

Request a temporary delay in collection

If you are unable to pay your taxes due to a temporary financial hardship, you can request that the IRS delay collection until your financial situation improves. During this time, penalties and interest will still accrue, but the IRS will not take further collection actions such as wage garnishments or levies.

Pro tip

  • Keep detailed records of all tax-related documents – Having accurate and organized records will help you quickly verify discrepancies and respond to any IRS inquiries with the necessary evidence.

Potential penalties and interest if you ignore the CP721 notice

Ignoring a CP721 notice can result in serious financial consequences. The IRS expects taxpayers to respond promptly to any notice regarding taxes owed. If you fail to address the balance, the IRS may begin adding penalties and interest, making it more difficult to pay off the debt. The longer the balance remains unpaid, the higher your total liability will grow. Here’s what could happen if you ignore a CP721 notice:

Accrued interest

Interest begins accruing on unpaid taxes starting from the original due date of the tax return. This interest compounds daily, meaning the longer you wait to resolve the balance, the more you’ll owe.

Late payment penalties

In addition to interest, the IRS charges a late payment penalty for unpaid taxes. This penalty is typically 0.5% of the unpaid taxes for each month the balance remains unpaid, up to a maximum of 25%. Ignoring the CP721 notice will likely lead to these penalties being applied to your account.

Collection actions

If you continue to ignore the CP721 notice, the IRS may take further collection actions. This can include placing a lien on your property, garnishing your wages, or seizing funds from your bank accounts. The IRS has significant powers to collect unpaid taxes, so it’s important to avoid these severe consequences by responding to the notice.

What happens if you disagree with the CP721 notice?

If you believe that the IRS made a mistake when issuing the CP721 notice, you have the right to dispute it. Here’s how you can challenge the notice:

Gather supporting documentation

The first step is to gather any documents that support your claim. This may include W-2 forms, 1099 forms, receipts, or any other records that verify the income and deductions you reported on your original tax return.

Contact the IRS

You can contact the IRS directly using the phone number provided on the CP721 notice. Explain why you believe the adjustments are incorrect and provide the necessary documentation to support your case. The IRS may request that you submit these documents in writing for review.

File an amended return

If the issue stems from an error on your original tax return, you can file an amended return using Form 1040-X. This form allows you to correct mistakes, report previously unreported income, or adjust deductions. Make sure to include all necessary supporting documentation with your amended return.

Pro tip

  • Consider professional help – If you’re unsure about how to handle the CP721 notice or if the situation becomes complex, consulting a tax professional can save you time, money, and stress.

Seeking professional help to resolve your CP721 notice

Dealing with tax notices from the IRS can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure how to proceed. In some cases, seeking professional help from a tax expert may be the best course of action.

Hiring a tax professional

A certified public accountant (CPA), enrolled agent (EA), or tax attorney can provide expert guidance and help you navigate the process of responding to the CP721 notice. These professionals can help you determine if the IRS’s adjustments are correct and assist you in preparing any necessary documentation or amended returns.

Consult a taxpayer advocate

If you’re having difficulty resolving the issue with the IRS, you can seek help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS). This is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve issues and ensures that they are treated fairly. If your case involves a significant hardship, TAS may be able to expedite the resolution process.

Preventing future tax issues

Receiving a CP721 notice can be a learning experience for taxpayers, helping to prevent similar issues in the future. Here are some steps you can take to avoid receiving another CP721 notice or other IRS letters:

Ensure accurate reporting

One of the best ways to avoid IRS notices is to ensure that your tax return is accurate and complete. Double-check your income, deductions, and credits before submitting your return to avoid discrepancies with IRS records.

Keep thorough records

Maintain accurate and organized records of your income, expenses, and any tax-related documents throughout the year. Having these records readily available can make it easier to file an accurate return and respond to any IRS inquiries.

File and pay on time

Filing your tax return on time and paying any taxes owed by the due date will help you avoid interest, penalties, and IRS notices. If you’re unable to pay your taxes in full by the deadline, contact the IRS to set up a payment plan as soon as possible.
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Frequently asked questions

Why did I receive a CP721 notice?

You received a CP721 notice because the IRS made adjustments to your tax return that resulted in a higher tax liability. This could be due to discrepancies between the information on your return and third-party reports, unreported income, or corrections requested by you or the IRS.

What should I do if I receive a CP721 notice?

You should review the notice carefully to understand the adjustments made to your return. If you agree with the changes, follow the instructions to pay the balance due. If you disagree, contact the IRS and provide documentation to support your claim.

How can I pay the amount due on my CP721 notice?

You can pay the balance online through the IRS website, by mail with a check or money order, or by setting up an installment agreement if you cannot pay the full amount at once.

What happens if I ignore the CP721 notice?

Ignoring the notice can result in accrued interest, penalties, and IRS collection actions, such as wage garnishments or liens. It’s essential to address the notice promptly to avoid these consequences.

Can I dispute the CP721 notice?

Yes, if you believe the IRS made an error, you can dispute the notice by providing supporting documentation and contacting the IRS to explain your case. You may also file an amended return if necessary.
Need help understanding other IRS letters and notices? Visit our comprehensive guide to IRS Letters and Notices or search for the document you received in the table below.
IRS Letter or Notice Number
Notice Description
CP01The IRS verified your claim of identity theft and will monitor your account.
CP01HThe IRS received a tax return with a social security number that belongs to a dead person.
CP02HMoney is due on an amended return based on a grant received due to Hurricane Katrina, Rita, or Wilma.
CP03CYou received the First-Time Homebuyer Credit for a house you purchased.
CP04You may be eligible for tax deferment because either you or a spouse served in a combat zone, a qualified contingency operation, or a hazardous duty station during the tax year specified on your notice.
CP08You may be entitled to additional money due to the Additional Child Tax Credit.
CP10Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed.
CP10AYour tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed.
CP11You owe money because the IRS amended your return due to a miscalculation.
CP11AYour tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment also changed.
CP11MYour tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay and Government Retiree Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed.
CP12You are due a bigger refund because the IRS corrected one or more mistakes on your tax return.
CP12AThe IRS made changes to correct the Earned Income Credit (EIC) claimed on your tax return.
CP12E or CP12FThe IRS corrected a miscalculation on your return.
CP12MThe IRS made changes to the computation of the Making Work Pay and/or Government Retiree Credits on your return.
CP12RThe IRS made changes to the computation of the Rebate Recovery Credit on your return.
CP13The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP13AThe IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP13MThe IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay credit or the Government Retiree Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP13RThe IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Recovery Rebate Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP14You owe money on unpaid taxes.
CP16The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. The refund you were due was applied to other tax debts.
CP21AYou owe money due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns.
CP21BYou are due a refund due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns. The money should arrive within 2 to 3 weeks.
CP21CThe IRS made the requested changes to your tax return. You will not receive a refund, and there is no tax due. Your balance is zero.
CP21EAs a result of your recent audit, the IRS made changes to your tax return, and you owe money as a result of those changes.
CP21IThe IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes.
CP22AThe IRS made the changes you requested, and you owe money as a result.
CP22EAs a result of your recent audit, the IRS changed your tax return, and you now owe money.
CP22IThe IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes.
CP23The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You owe taxes due to these changes.
CP24The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes.
CP24EThe IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes.
CP25The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You are not due a refund, nor do you owe any money. Your balance is zero.
CP31You need to update your address because your refund check was returned to the IRS.
CP45The IRS was unable to apply your overpayment to your estimated tax as you requested.
CP49The IRS used all or part of your refund to pay a tax debt.
CP53Your refund check will be sent by mail because the IRS can’t provide your refund through direct deposit.
CP57The bank declined your payment, so the IRS was unable to draft funds from your bank account.
CP71A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP71AA reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP71CA reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP71DA reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP88The IRS is holding your refund because you haven't filed one or more tax returns, and it believes you will owe tax.
CP90The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy in a Collection Due Process hearing.
CP91The IRS will levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes.
CP120The IRS needs documentation of your tax-exempt status.
CP120AYour organization’s tax-exempt status has been revoked because it failed to file a Form 990 series return for three consecutive years.
CP130You may no longer need to pay the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) because your tax return filing requirements changed.
CP152The IRS received your return.
CP153The IRS will send your refund by mail because your direct deposit did not go through.
CP161You have an unpaid balance due to the IRS.
CP166Your monthly payment to the IRS did not go through due to insufficient funds in your bank account.
CP178You may no longer owe excise tax because your tax return filing requirements changed.
CP231You need to update your address because your refund was returned to the IRS.
CP259You did not file the business tax return identified in the notice.
CP259AYou should have filed these forms but did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax, or Form 990-N (e-Postcard).
CP259BThe IRS requires you to file these forms but did not – Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation.
CP259CThe IRS believes that you are a private foundation, but did not file the required Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation.
CP259DYou must file this form, but you did not – Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return.
CP259EYou should have filed this form, but you did not – Form 990-N (e-Postcard) or Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax.
CP259FThe IRS requires you to file this form but did not – Form 5227, Split-Interest Trust Information Return.
CP259GThe IRS requires you to file this form, but you didn’t – Form 1120-POL, U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Political Organizations.
CP259HAs a tax-exempt political organization, you must file this form, but you did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax.
CP276AYou submitted your tax liability schedule incorrectly. The IRS typically charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty for this but did not this time.
CP276BThe IRS did not receive the correct amount of tax deposits. It normally charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty but did not this time.
CP297The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing.
CP297AThe IRS has levied your assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing.
CP298The IRS notifying you of its intent to levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes.
CP501You have a balance due on one of your tax accounts.
CP503You have an unpaid balance on one of your accounts, and the IRS has not heard from you.
CP504You have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy your state income tax refund to apply it to the amount you owe.
CP504BYou have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy certain property or rights to property to apply it to the amount you owe.
CP521A reminder that you have an installment agreement payment due.
CP523You have defaulted on your payment agreement. Therefore the IRS is terminating the agreement and will levy your assets.
CP601Usted tiene un saldo pendiente de pago (dinero que le debe al IRS) en una de sus cuentas contributivas.
CP603No hemos recibido respuesta de parte de usted y todavía tiene un saldo sin pagar en una de sus cuentas contributivas.
CP604Usted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará cualquier reembolso de impuestos estatales al que tenga derecho y aplicarlo al pago de su deuda.
CP604BUsted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará ciertas propiedades o derechos de propiedad y lo aplicará al pago de su deuda.
CP621Este aviso es para notificarle que usted tiene un plan de pagos a plazos vencido. Por favor, envíe el pago inmediatamente.
CP623Este aviso es para informarle nuestra intención de cancelar su plan de pagos a plazos y confiscar (embargar) sus bienes. Usted incumplió en su acuerdo.
CP711Nosotros realizamos cambios a su planilla debido a que entendemos que hubo un cálculo erróneo. Como resultado de estos cambios, usted adeuda dinero por sus contribuciones.
CP721Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos.
CP722Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos.
CP771Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP772Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP773Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP774Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP959Usted no radicó su planilla de contribución de negocios identificada en este aviso.
CP2000The income or payment information on file doesn’t match your tax return. The discrepancy may result in an increase or decrease in your tax due.
CP3219AThe IRS has received information that is different from what you reported on your tax return. This may result in an increase or decrease in your tax.
CP3219NThe IRS didn’t receive your tax return, so it calculated your return based on the information received from employers, financial institutions, and others. If you want to challenge the proposed tax, you have 90 days from the date of this notice. If you are outside the country, you have 150 days.
Letter 0012CThe IRS needs additional information to process your tax return.
Letter 0484CThe IRS wants a completed
Letter 0525Updates you on proposed changes after an IRS examination. Any changes are explained and details the refund due or taxes owed.
Letter 531IRS Notice of Deficiency. The information the IRS received about you was different from what you reported on your return.
Letter 0668D(LP 68)The IRS released their levy.
Letter 0549CYour tax bill was paid.
Letter 0681CThe IRS accepted your payment proposal. However, this is not a formal Installment Agreement.
Letter 0757CYou did not adhere to the terms of your Installment Agreement.
Letter LT 11The IRS plans to seize your property or rights to property.
Letter 1058The IRS has not received your payment. It plans to seize your property or rights to property.
Letter 1615 (LT 18)You must respond to the IRS within 10 days of this notice regarding past due tax returns.
Letter 1737 (LT 27)Complete and sign Form 433F, Collection Information Statement.
Letter 1961CYour application for a Direct Debit Installment Agreement was declined. It explains why and what you need to do to qualify.
Letter 1962CYour application for a
Letter 2050 (LT 16)The IRS is trying to collect unpaid taxes from you from returns that have been filed or from returns that have not been filed.
Letter 2257CThe IRS is providing the payoff amount that you requested.
Letter 226-JAn IRS letter to large employers notifying them that they may be liable for an Employer Shared Responsibility Payment (ESRP).
Letter 2271CA request for an Installment Agreement has been approved. It explains the fees and how to qualify for a Low Income Fee Reduction. The letter may also request missing information.
Letter 2272CAn IRS letter explaining why your request to pay the balance due in installments was declined.
Letter 2273CA confirmation letter of your request to pay the balance due in installments. It contained the amount to pay, fees charged, and where to send payment. Instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction included.
Letter 2318CA response to a request to pay taxes due to payroll deductions. It also explains the fees that are charged.
Letter 2357CThe IRS is admitting that it did not send you the balance due notices that it should have.
Letter 2603CThe IRS accepted your installment agreement. The IRS will file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien on your personal property.
Letter 2604CThe IRS has accepted your request for installment payments. This IRS letter provides the monthly payment, the address where to send it, and the fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction.
Letter 2761CThe IRS is requesting your combat zone service dates to ensure that it provides you with the special provisions and protection of the combat zone deferment. Copies of military orders or other documentation to support your time served may be requested. Civilians working in support of the Armed Forces may be required to provide a Letter of Authorization or a letter from their employer.
Letter 2789CAn annual reminder notice, as required by law, of the balance due to the IRS. It explains that penalties and interest continue to accrue until the balance is fully paid.
Letter 2840CConfirms your Installment Agreement request and includes the payment amount and due date. This IRS letter explains the fees charged for paying monthly and explains how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify).
Letter 3030CProvides an explanation of the tax, penalty, and interest still due on your account.
Letter 3127CA confirmation of your request to make a change to your Installment Agreement. This IRS letter explains the fees for the change. Changes can be to the payment amount or due date, or it can include additional liabilities.
Letter 3174A reminder of taxes due after the IRS has sent a Notice of Intent to Levy.
Letter 3217CThe IRS has accepted your request to pay the balance in installments. This IRS letter provides your payment amount, the due date, and fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on applying for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify).
Letter 3228 (LT 39)A request to pay the balance due within 10 days using the envelope provided.
Letter 3500The IRS has received your documents, and it needs additional time to review them.
Letter 3572Your Federal Income Tax Return has been selected for examination. The IRS auditor requests that you call to schedule an audit appointment.
Letter 4883CThe IRS received your federal income tax return but needs more information to verify your identity in order to process your tax return accurately.
Letter 4903 (LT 26)You must file your tax returns immediately. The IRS has previously contacted you, but it did not receive a response.
Letter LP 47The IRS is trying to locate the person identified in the letter and is requesting that you provide their new address.
Letter LP 59The IRS has not received a response to the notice of levy it previously sent.
Audit Letter 2205The IRS manages audits either by mail or through an in-person interview to review your records. The interview may be at an IRS office (office audit) or the taxpayer’s home, place of business, or accountant’s office (field audit).
Letter 915You recently underwent an audit, and the IRS informs you that you now owe taxes.

Key takeaways

  • A CP721 notice indicates that the IRS has made changes to your tax return, resulting in additional taxes owed.
  • Common reasons for receiving a CP721 notice include income discrepancies, unreported income, and IRS or taxpayer-requested adjustments.
  • Responding promptly to the notice is essential to avoid further interest, penalties, and collection actions.
  • If you disagree with the notice, you can dispute it by providing supporting documentation and contacting the IRS.

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