IRS Letter 96C: What Is It and How to Respond
Summary:
IRS Letter 96C is an acknowledgment letter sent by the IRS to confirm that they have received certain information or documentation from a taxpayer. This letter does not indicate that the IRS has fully processed the information or resolved the issue. Instead, it serves as a receipt, letting taxpayers know that their materials have reached the IRS. Understanding the purpose of IRS Letter 96C and the next steps can help taxpayers stay informed and avoid confusion. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to the IRS 96C letter, including what it means, why it is issued, and how to respond.
Receiving correspondence from the IRS can be stressful, but IRS Letter 96C generally serves as a simple acknowledgment rather than a demand for action. This letter confirms that the IRS has received specific information or documents you submitted, such as a tax return, response to an earlier notice, or other forms and paperwork. While the letter does not imply that the issue is resolved, it confirms receipt, giving you peace of mind that your documents are in the IRS’s hands. This guide explains everything you need to know about IRS Letter 96C, from its purpose to what you may need to do after receiving it.
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Understanding IRS Letter 96C
IRS Letter 96C is primarily an acknowledgment letter, serving as official confirmation that the IRS has received information from you. Here’s a closer look at what this letter entails:
- Receipt confirmation: The letter states, “The IRS has received the information you sent,” confirming that the IRS has received specific documents or responses.
- Pending review: This letter does not mean that the IRS has reviewed or processed the information. It simply acknowledges receipt.
- Document tracking: If you sent in forms, tax returns, or responses to prior notices, the 96C letter provides peace of mind, letting you know the IRS has received them.
Although IRS Letter 96C may appear minimal, it is essential as it assures taxpayers that their submissions have reached the IRS and will undergo further review or processing as needed.
Pro Tip
Keep a copy of the IRS Letter 96C and all related documents in your records. This can be helpful if the IRS later questions your submission or requires additional verification.
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Why the IRS sends Letter 96C
IRS Letter 96C can be sent for various reasons. Below are the most common situations in which you might receive this acknowledgment letter:
Submitted tax returns or amendments
You may receive Letter 96C if you filed a tax return or an amendment and the IRS is confirming receipt of your documents. This is often sent when a taxpayer submits a late return, amends an existing return, or resubmits documentation requested by the IRS.
Response to a prior notice
If you responded to an earlier IRS notice by providing additional information, the IRS may send Letter 96C to acknowledge that they received your response. This letter does not necessarily mean the issue is resolved; it simply indicates that the IRS has received your submission and will take further action if necessary.
Additional documentation requests
The IRS sometimes asks for additional documentation to verify specific information on your return. If you submitted documents in response to such a request, Letter 96C acts as a receipt confirming that your paperwork has been received.
Information corrections or updates
If you contacted the IRS to update information on your account (such as correcting a Social Security number or updating an address), they may send Letter 96C to acknowledge the update request.
Steps to take after receiving IRS Letter 96C
Receiving IRS Letter 96C doesn’t usually require further action, but here are some steps to consider for staying organized and prepared:
- Review the letter: Carefully read the letter to confirm the information it acknowledges and to understand any pending actions or next steps.
- Verify document submission: Check your records to ensure you submitted the correct forms or information the letter refers to.
- Wait for further communication: The IRS will likely reach out if they require additional information or if there are any issues with the submitted documents.
- Retain the letter for your records: Keep IRS Letter 96C and any related correspondence on file. This can be useful if the IRS needs clarification or verification of the original submission.
Pro Tip
Always track mailed documents using certified mail or a trackable delivery service. This provides confirmation that the IRS received your documents, in addition to IRS Letter 96C.
Potential implications of IRS Letter 96C
Receiving IRS Letter 96C is typically a neutral event, but it’s essential to understand its implications. Here are some potential effects of this letter:
- Delayed processing times: While the letter confirms receipt, it does not guarantee quick processing. IRS reviews and processing times can vary, especially during tax season.
- Requirement for additional information: In some cases, the IRS may send a follow-up letter requesting more information or documentation if they identify any discrepancies.
- Confirmation of compliance: For taxpayers under audit or involved in ongoing IRS inquiries, IRS Letter 96C may offer reassurance that the IRS has received their submissions, ensuring continued compliance.
Possible next steps if you receive IRS Letter 96C
After receiving IRS Letter 96C, you typically only need to wait for further IRS communication. However, if you have concerns or additional questions, here are some proactive steps:
Check the status of your submission
If you want to verify the status of the documents referenced in IRS Letter 96C, you may contact the IRS. Note that processing times can vary, so the IRS may not have immediate updates.
Maintain updated records
Keep detailed records of your interactions with the IRS, including IRS Letter 96C, any other correspondence, and copies of the documents submitted. This is especially important if you are resolving a dispute or handling complex tax matters.
Contact the IRS if needed
If you have specific questions about the letter or your submission, contact the IRS using the phone number listed on Letter 96C. Be prepared to provide relevant details, such as your taxpayer identification number (TIN) or social security number (SSN), to discuss your case.
Pro Tip
If waiting for a critical IRS response, check your account on the IRS website. Setting up online alerts can notify you of updates, saving time and reducing uncertainty.
Consequences of ignoring IRS Letter 96C
While IRS Letter 96C typically doesn’t require action, disregarding it entirely could lead to complications. Here’s why it’s important to keep it on record:
- Possible delays in issue resolution: If the IRS later needs to verify your submission, not having a record of Letter 96C could complicate matters.
- Reduced proof of timely submission: Keeping this letter ensures you have documented evidence that you responded to IRS requests or submitted the required information on time.
- Missed follow-up requests: If the IRS needs additional information, they may send another letter. Keeping IRS Letter 96C ensures that you remain aware of the communication history.
Understanding your rights and options
Taxpayers have specific rights when dealing with the IRS, known as the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Understanding your rights can be helpful if you face an extended IRS process or feel that issues remain unresolved.
- The right to be informed: You have the right to know what information the IRS needs and why.
- The right to quality service: You can expect clear communication and assistance when dealing with IRS matters.
- The right to challenge the IRS: If there are discrepancies, you have the right to present your case and seek resolution.
For more on your taxpayer rights, refer to the IRS’s official guide to taxpayer rights and responsibilities.
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Frequently asked questions
Is IRS Letter 96C a sign of audit?
No, IRS Letter 96C is an acknowledgment, not a notice of audit. It simply confirms that the IRS has received your documents or response, which may or may not relate to an audit.
What should I do if I lose IRS Letter 96C?
If you misplace IRS Letter 96C, don’t worry. Keep any other relevant records, such as a copy of the documents you submitted, and proof of mailing or electronic submission. You can also contact the IRS to request confirmation that they received your documents, as they typically keep a record of communications sent to taxpayers.
Do I need to respond to IRS Letter 96C?
Generally, IRS Letter 96C does not require a response. It’s simply an acknowledgment that the IRS received your submission. However, if the IRS later requests additional information, you should respond promptly to avoid delays or complications.
How long should I keep IRS Letter 96C?
You should retain IRS Letter 96C in your records for at least three years, as this is the IRS’s general statute of limitations for auditing tax returns. Keeping it longer is advisable, especially if the letter relates to a complex issue or dispute with the IRS.
Can I check the status of my documents after receiving IRS Letter 96C?
Yes, you can contact the IRS or check your account status on the IRS website to track the progress of your submission. Keep in mind that processing times may vary, so it may take some time for updates to appear in your account.
Does receiving IRS Letter 96C affect my tax refund?
IRS Letter 96C does not directly impact your refund. However, if the IRS is reviewing your return or documents, this may delay the processing of your refund until they complete the review. You can check the status of your refund on the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
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.
| CP01 | The IRS verified your claim of identity theft and will monitor your account. |
| CP01H | The IRS received a tax return with a social security number that belongs to a dead person. |
| CP02H | Money is due on an amended return based on a grant received due to Hurricane Katrina, Rita, or Wilma. |
| CP03C | You received the First-Time Homebuyer Credit for a house you purchased. |
| CP04 | You 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. |
| CP08 | You may be entitled to additional money due to the Additional Child Tax Credit. |
| CP10 | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed. |
| CP10A | Your 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. |
| CP11 | You owe money because the IRS amended your return due to a miscalculation. |
| CP11A | Your 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. |
| CP11M | Your 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. |
| CP12 | You are due a bigger refund because the IRS corrected one or more mistakes on your tax return. |
| CP12A | The IRS made changes to correct the Earned Income Credit (EIC) claimed on your tax return. |
| CP12E or CP12F | The IRS corrected a miscalculation on your return. |
| CP12M | The IRS made changes to the computation of the Making Work Pay and/or Government Retiree Credits on your return. |
| CP12R | The IRS made changes to the computation of the Rebate Recovery Credit on your return. |
| CP13 | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP13A | The 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. |
| CP13M | The 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. |
| CP13R | The 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. |
| CP14 | You owe money on unpaid taxes. |
| CP16 | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. The refund you were due was applied to other tax debts. |
| CP21A | You owe money due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns. |
| CP21B | You 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. |
| CP21C | The 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. |
| CP21E | As a result of your recent audit, the IRS made changes to your tax return, and you owe money as a result of those changes. |
| CP21I | The IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes. |
| CP22A | The IRS made the changes you requested, and you owe money as a result. |
| CP22E | As a result of your recent audit, the IRS changed your tax return, and you now owe money. |
| CP22I | The IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes. |
| CP23 | The 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. |
| CP24 | The 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. |
| CP24E | The 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. |
| CP25 | The 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. |
| CP31 | You need to update your address because your refund check was returned to the IRS. |
| CP45 | The IRS was unable to apply your overpayment to your estimated tax as you requested. |
| CP49 | The IRS used all or part of your refund to pay a tax debt. |
| CP53 | Your refund check will be sent by mail because the IRS can’t provide your refund through direct deposit. |
| CP57 | The bank declined your payment, so the IRS was unable to draft funds from your bank account. |
| CP71 | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71A | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71C | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71D | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP88 | The IRS is holding your refund because you haven't filed one or more tax returns, and it believes you will owe tax. |
| CP90 | The 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. |
| CP91 | The IRS will levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes. |
| CP120 | The IRS needs documentation of your tax-exempt status. |
| CP120A | Your organization’s tax-exempt status has been revoked because it failed to file a Form 990 series return for three consecutive years. |
| CP130 | You may no longer need to pay the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) because your tax return filing requirements changed. |
| CP152 | The IRS received your return. |
| CP153 | The IRS will send your refund by mail because your direct deposit did not go through. |
| CP161 | You have an unpaid balance due to the IRS. |
| CP166 | Your monthly payment to the IRS did not go through due to insufficient funds in your bank account. |
| CP178 | You may no longer owe excise tax because your tax return filing requirements changed. |
| CP231 | You need to update your address because your refund was returned to the IRS. |
| CP259 | You did not file the business tax return identified in the notice. |
| CP259A | You 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). |
| CP259B | The 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. |
| CP259C | The 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. |
| CP259D | You must file this form, but you did not – Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return. |
| CP259E | You 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. |
| CP259F | The IRS requires you to file this form but did not – Form 5227, Split-Interest Trust Information Return. |
| CP259G | The IRS requires you to file this form, but you didn’t – Form 1120-POL, U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Political Organizations. |
| CP259H | As 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. |
| CP276A | You submitted your tax liability schedule incorrectly. The IRS typically charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty for this but did not this time. |
| CP276B | The IRS did not receive the correct amount of tax deposits. It normally charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty but did not this time. |
| CP297 | The 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. |
| CP297A | The IRS has levied your assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing. |
| CP298 | The IRS notifying you of its intent to levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes. |
| CP501 | You have a balance due on one of your tax accounts. |
| CP503 | You have an unpaid balance on one of your accounts, and the IRS has not heard from you. |
| CP504 | You 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. |
| CP504B | You 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. |
| CP521 | A reminder that you have an installment agreement payment due. |
| CP523 | You have defaulted on your payment agreement. Therefore the IRS is terminating the agreement and will levy your assets. |
| CP601 | Usted tiene un saldo pendiente de pago (dinero que le debe al IRS) en una de sus cuentas contributivas. |
| CP603 | No hemos recibido respuesta de parte de usted y todavía tiene un saldo sin pagar en una de sus cuentas contributivas. |
| CP604 | Usted 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. |
| CP604B | Usted 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. |
| CP621 | Este aviso es para notificarle que usted tiene un plan de pagos a plazos vencido. Por favor, envíe el pago inmediatamente. |
| CP623 | Este aviso es para informarle nuestra intención de cancelar su plan de pagos a plazos y confiscar (embargar) sus bienes. Usted incumplió en su acuerdo. |
| CP711 | Nosotros 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. |
| CP721 | Hicimos 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. |
| CP722 | Hicimos 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. |
| CP771 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP772 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP773 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP774 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP959 | Usted no radicó su planilla de contribución de negocios identificada en este aviso. |
| CP2000 | The 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. |
| CP3219A | The 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. |
| CP3219N | The 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 0012C | The IRS needs additional information to process your tax return. |
| Letter 0484C | The IRS wants a completed |
| Letter 0525 | Updates you on proposed changes after an IRS examination. Any changes are explained and details the refund due or taxes owed. |
| Letter 531 | IRS 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 0549C | Your tax bill was paid. |
| Letter 0681C | The IRS accepted your payment proposal. However, this is not a formal Installment Agreement. |
| Letter 0757C | You did not adhere to the terms of your Installment Agreement. |
| Letter LT 11 | The IRS plans to seize your property or rights to property. |
| Letter 1058 | The 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 1961C | Your application for a Direct Debit Installment Agreement was declined. It explains why and what you need to do to qualify. |
| Letter 1962C | Your 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 2257C | The IRS is providing the payoff amount that you requested. |
| Letter 226-J | An IRS letter to large employers notifying them that they may be liable for an Employer Shared Responsibility Payment (ESRP). |
| Letter 2271C | A 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 2272C | An IRS letter explaining why your request to pay the balance due in installments was declined. |
| Letter 2273C | A 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 2318C | A response to a request to pay taxes due to payroll deductions. It also explains the fees that are charged. |
| Letter 2357C | The IRS is admitting that it did not send you the balance due notices that it should have. |
| Letter 2603C | The IRS accepted your installment agreement. The IRS will file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien on your personal property. |
| Letter 2604C | The 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 2761C | The 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 2789C | An 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 2840C | Confirms 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 3030C | Provides an explanation of the tax, penalty, and interest still due on your account. |
| Letter 3127C | A 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 3174 | A reminder of taxes due after the IRS has sent a Notice of Intent to Levy. |
| Letter 3217C | The 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 3500 | The IRS has received your documents, and it needs additional time to review them. |
| Letter 3572 | Your Federal Income Tax Return has been selected for examination. The IRS auditor requests that you call to schedule an audit appointment. |
| Letter 4883C | The 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 47 | The IRS is trying to locate the person identified in the letter and is requesting that you provide their new address. |
| Letter LP 59 | The IRS has not received a response to the notice of levy it previously sent. |
| Audit Letter 2205 | The 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 915 | You recently underwent an audit, and the IRS informs you that you now owe taxes. |
Key takeaways
- IRS Letter 96C is an acknowledgment that the IRS has received your submission, not a sign of further action or resolution.
- This letter does not require a response but should be kept in your records for future reference.
- If further information or clarification is needed, the IRS will follow up with additional communication.
- Receiving IRS Letter 96C may indicate that a review or processing delay could impact your refund or other IRS matters.
- Be sure to keep track of all related IRS correspondence and maintain organized records for future verification.
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