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IRS Letter 2273C: How to Handle Your Tax Installment Plan

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Last updated 10/30/2024 by
SuperMoney Team
Fact checked by
Ante Mazalin
Summary:
The IRS sends Letter 2273C to taxpayers with detailed information about an installment agreement they’ve entered into to pay off tax debt. The letter outlines the specifics of the agreement, such as payment amounts, deadlines, and instructions for submitting payments. It also explains any set-up fees charged by the IRS. This letter is important because it ensures taxpayers understand their responsibilities under the agreement. Taxpayers facing hardship may be able to adjust their agreements by contacting a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist, avoiding potential penalties and default.
Receiving IRS Letter 2273C can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s a key part of ensuring that you remain in good standing with the IRS while paying off tax debt. This letter outlines the terms of an installment agreement, including payment amounts and due dates. It also explains how to submit your payments and any set-up fees you need to pay. If you’re facing financial hardship, you may be able to adjust your agreement to fit your circumstances better. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Letter 2273C, including what steps to take when you receive one and how to avoid common pitfalls.
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.

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What is IRS Letter 2273C?

IRS Letter 2273C is a notice sent to taxpayers who have entered into an installment agreement to pay off outstanding tax debt. The letter serves as an official record of the agreement and provides details on how the payment plan will work. Here’s what the letter typically includes:
  • The total amount of tax owed.
  • Monthly payment amounts and due dates.
  • Instructions on where to send your payments.
  • The set-up fee charged by the IRS for establishing the agreement.
The IRS sends this letter to make sure taxpayers understand their responsibilities under the payment plan. If you fail to follow the terms, the IRS could cancel the agreement, leading to additional penalties, interest, or even collection actions.

Pro Tip

Set up IRS account alerts online to get real-time notifications on any changes to your tax return or account. This helps you stay updated on adjustments and due dates.

Why did you receive IRS Letter 2273C?

Receiving IRS Letter 2273C means that you’ve entered into an installment agreement to resolve an outstanding tax debt. This letter confirms the terms of the agreement and ensures that both parties are on the same page regarding payments. It’s crucial to review the letter carefully and make sure that the payment terms align with your financial situation.
The IRS typically sends this letter after you’ve either requested an installment agreement or have already started making payments. The letter will provide a breakdown of your remaining balance, your monthly payment amounts, and instructions on where and how to make your payments. Additionally, it will include any applicable fees for setting up the agreement.

What to do when you receive IRS Letter 2273C

Upon receiving IRS Letter 2273C, it’s essential to act quickly to avoid missing any deadlines or payments. Here are the steps to take:
  • Read the letter thoroughly: Make sure you understand the terms of your installment agreement, including the payment schedule and set-up fees.
  • Verify your payment amounts: Double-check that the amount you owe matches your expectations. If there’s a discrepancy, contact the IRS immediately.
  • Set up reminders: Installment agreements often come with strict payment schedules. Missing a payment could result in penalties or the cancellation of your agreement, so it’s vital to set up reminders for each due date.
  • Consider automatic payments: Many taxpayers find it helpful to set up automatic payments to ensure that they never miss a deadline.
If you find that the payment plan is too burdensome due to financial hardship, it may be possible to renegotiate the terms. Contact a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist or the IRS to discuss potential adjustments to your agreement. Failing to adhere to the terms of the agreement could result in default, penalties, or interest accumulating on your tax balance.

Pro Tip

Consider using automatic payments for your IRS installment agreement to avoid missed payments and ensure you remain in compliance with the agreement terms.

How to adjust your installment agreement

If your financial situation changes after entering into an installment agreement, you may be eligible to adjust your payment plan. The IRS allows taxpayers experiencing hardship to request changes to their agreement. Here’s how:

Steps to request an adjustment

  • Gather documentation: Collect any financial documents that demonstrate your inability to meet the current payment terms, such as bank statements, pay stubs, or proof of medical expenses.
  • Contact the IRS: Call the IRS using the contact information provided on Letter 2273C to explain your situation and request a modification to your agreement.
  • Submit a new payment proposal: Propose a new payment amount based on your updated financial situation. Be prepared to explain why the current terms are unsustainable.
It’s important to remember that the IRS will only consider adjustments for taxpayers who have filed all required tax returns and are up to date on their current payments. If you’re behind on any tax filings or payments, address those issues before attempting to modify your installment agreement.

Pro Tip

If your financial situation changes, don’t wait until you miss a payment. Contact the IRS early to renegotiate the terms of your installment agreement and avoid default.

What happens if you default on your installment agreement?

Defaulting on your installment agreement with the IRS can lead to serious consequences. If you fail to make a payment or violate the terms of your agreement, the IRS may take the following actions:
  • Cancel the agreement: If you default, the IRS has the right to cancel the installment agreement entirely, making your entire tax debt due immediately.
  • Impose penalties and interest: Defaulting on your payments can result in additional penalties and interest, further increasing your overall tax liability.
  • Initiate collection actions: In the event of default, the IRS may pursue more aggressive collection tactics, such as wage garnishments, levies, or liens on your property.
To avoid these consequences, it’s crucial to stay on top of your payments and reach out to the IRS or a tax professional if you encounter financial difficulties.
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Frequently asked questions

How can I check the balance on my IRS installment agreement?

To check the balance of your IRS installment agreement, you can use the IRS’s online payment agreement tool or access your account through the IRS website. You can also contact the IRS by phone and provide your installment agreement details to get the latest balance information. It’s important to keep track of your payments to ensure they’re being applied correctly and that you’re staying on top of your agreement.

Can I apply for an installment agreement if I owe back taxes for multiple years?

Yes, you can apply for an installment agreement even if you owe taxes for multiple years. The IRS will consolidate all outstanding balances into one payment plan. However, you must ensure that all tax returns are filed before the IRS will approve an installment agreement. It’s also crucial to remain in compliance with future tax filings and payments to maintain your agreement.

Will the IRS garnish my wages if I default on my installment agreement?

If you default on your installment agreement, the IRS may initiate collection actions, including wage garnishments. They could also place a lien on your property or levy your bank accounts. It’s essential to contact the IRS as soon as possible if you’re unable to make a payment to avoid these harsh consequences. In many cases, the IRS is willing to work with taxpayers who communicate their financial difficulties promptly.

Can I modify my IRS installment agreement after it’s been set up?

Yes, it is possible to modify your IRS installment agreement if your financial situation changes. You can request a payment adjustment by contacting the IRS and providing documentation that shows you can no longer afford the current payment terms. This could result in a lower monthly payment or an extension of the agreement’s duration. Keep in mind that the IRS will only approve modifications if you’re current on all required tax returns and payments.

What happens if I fail to make my final payment on the IRS installment agreement?

If you miss the final payment on your installment agreement, the IRS will consider your agreement in default, and the remaining balance will become due immediately. Interest and penalties will continue to accrue, and the IRS could take collection actions to recover the debt. It’s important to ensure that the final payment is made on time, or you should contact the IRS in advance if you’re unable to make it to discuss alternative options.
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

  • IRS Letter 2273C provides important details about your installment agreement, including payment amounts and deadlines.
  • Failure to follow the terms of your agreement could result in penalties, interest, or the cancellation of the agreement.
  • If you face financial hardship, contact the IRS to explore options for adjusting your payment plan.
  • Setting up automatic payments can help ensure that you never miss a due date.

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