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IRS LT27 Notice: What Is It and How Should You Respond?

Silas Bamigbola avatar image
Last updated 11/01/2024 by
Silas Bamigbola
Fact checked by
Ante Mazalin
Summary:
The IRS sends the LT27 Notice when they haven’t received your Online Payment Agreement (OPA) application. This notice warns that, without a prompt response, your account will go to collections. Once in collections, the IRS may take enforcement actions like garnishing wages or seizing assets. Completing the required paperwork or paying your balance in full is critical to avoid penalties and collection activities.
The IRS LT27 Notice often catches taxpayers by surprise, but it’s important to understand its purpose and how to respond. Typically, the IRS sends this notice because they are waiting for your response about an Online Payment Agreement (OPA) application. If you don’t submit the requested information or payment, your account may end up in collections. This can lead to serious actions like wage garnishment, property liens, or levies. However, quick action can prevent these outcomes and keep the situation under control.

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What is the IRS LT27 notice?

The IRS sends an LT27 Notice when they haven’t received an Online Payment Agreement (OPA) application. This form allows taxpayers to set up a payment plan for unpaid taxes. The notice acts as a final reminder, pushing you to complete the necessary documentation or pay your balance. Failing to respond on time may result in your account being sent to collections, leading to enforcement actions. The LT27 notice is a critical step in the IRS’s collection process, but it offers you a last chance to resolve your tax debt before the situation escalates.

Common reasons for receiving the IRS LT27 notice

You might receive the LT27 notice because the IRS hasn’t received your completed application for an Online Payment Agreement (OPA). This could happen for several reasons, such as failing to submit the OPA after agreeing to a payment plan or delaying the required forms like Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request. The notice might also be triggered if you send incorrect or missing documentation or fail to respond to earlier IRS notices about your unpaid taxes.
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.

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.

Consequences of ignoring the IRS LT27 notice

Ignoring an IRS LT27 notice can lead to serious financial issues. If you don’t respond by the given deadline, your account will move to collections, which can result in wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens. Here’s what might happen if you fail to act:

Wage garnishment and levies

The IRS can garnish your wages or take funds directly from your bank account to pay off the tax debt. This automatic withdrawal can create significant financial strain and limit your ability to cover daily expenses.

Tax liens

The IRS may place a federal tax lien on your property, which makes it harder to sell or refinance until the debt is settled. The lien can also lower your credit score, making it more difficult to qualify for loans or credit.

Interest and penalties

If you ignore the IRS LT27 notice, interest and penalties will continue to add up on your unpaid tax balance. Over time, this increases the amount owed and makes resolving your debt more challenging.

Pro Tip

Always keep copies of all notices, forms, and communications with the IRS. Having records of these documents can help resolve disputes or misunderstandings more quickly.

How to respond to the IRS LT27 notice

Acting quickly when you receive an IRS LT27 notice is essential to avoid collections and penalties. Follow these steps to resolve the situation:

Step 1: Complete your Online Payment Agreement (OPA) application

If you need to set up a payment plan but haven’t submitted the forms yet, now is the time to act. You can apply for an OPA online or by mailing Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, along with Form 433-F, Collection Information Statement. These documents will help the IRS assess your financial situation and set up a manageable payment plan.

Step 2: Pay your balance in full

If you can afford to pay your tax debt in full, you can avoid the need for an installment agreement and future collections. The IRS offers multiple payment methods, including paying directly from your bank account without any extra fees. Just follow the instructions in the notice to complete the payment.

Step 3: Consider other options if you cannot pay

If paying the full balance or setting up an installment agreement isn’t possible, you can explore other options like delaying collections or reducing your debt.
The IRS may temporarily delay collections if you’re facing financial hardship. This gives you time to stabilize your situation. Another option is the Offer in Compromise, where the IRS settles your debt for less than the total amount owed. Check the IRS pre-qualifier tool to see if you’re eligible.

Pro Tip

If you’re struggling to make payments, explore the Offer in Compromise program. The IRS may be willing to settle your debt for less than the full amount owed if you qualify.

Documents you need to complete the IRS LT27 notice

To resolve the IRS LT27 notice, you must submit key documents:
  • Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request: This form allows you to set up a monthly payment plan.
  • Form 433-F, Collection Information Statement: This provides the IRS with your financial details so they can determine your eligibility for a payment plan.
  • Supporting documentation: Depending on your financial status, the IRS may ask for pay stubs, bank statements, or other proof of income and assets.
Make sure to follow the instructions on the LT27 notice carefully, including where to send the forms.

Tips to avoid receiving an IRS LT27 notice in the future

Staying proactive with your tax responsibilities can help you avoid an IRS LT27 notice. If you earn income that isn’t subject to withholding, such as self-employment or investment income, make estimated tax payments throughout the year. This strategy helps you avoid large, unexpected tax bills at the end of the year and reduces the need for payment plans.
It’s also important to regularly review your tax withholding if you’re employed. Make sure the correct amount is withheld from your paycheck to cover your tax obligations. Staying current with your tax filings and paying any owed taxes on time will help you avoid not just the LT27 notice, but also penalties and complications from missed deadlines.

Pro Tip

Contact the IRS as soon as you receive the LT27 notice to prevent enforcement actions. Early communication can often lead to more flexible payment arrangements.

How to temporarily delay IRS collections if you can’t pay immediately

Requesting a temporary delay in collections

If you’re unable to pay your tax debt due to financial hardship, the IRS may let you temporarily delay collections. To request this delay, contact the IRS and provide details about your financial situation. They will review your income, expenses, and assets to decide if you qualify. If they approve your request, the IRS will mark your account as “currently not collectible,” pausing wage garnishments or levies.
However, interest and penalties will still add up on the unpaid balance. It’s essential to consider this option only if immediate payment isn’t possible. Delaying collections is temporary, and you will still owe the full amount once your situation improves.

Other options if you’re unable to pay

If delaying collections won’t solve your long-term problem, consider other IRS programs. An Offer in Compromise lets you settle your debt for less than the full amount if paying in full would cause financial hardship. Alternatively, you can set up an installment agreement, spreading payments over time to make the debt manageable. Staying in contact with the IRS will help you avoid escalating the situation.

Can you appeal the IRS LT27 notice?

When you can appeal an IRS LT27 notice

The IRS LT27 notice itself is not typically appealable, as it serves as a reminder to complete a payment agreement or pay your balance. However, if you believe the notice was issued by mistake or you disagree with the IRS’s payment plan decision, there are steps you can take. If you’ve already submitted the required paperwork or paid the balance, but you still received the notice, you should contact the IRS to resolve the issue.
If you disagree with the terms of your payment plan, you can request reconsideration. For example, submitting Form 13844 may help you qualify for a reduced fee due to financial hardship.

How to initiate an appeal

To formally appeal an IRS decision on your tax debt or collection status, submit Form 12153, Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing. This process allows you to dispute IRS actions like garnishments or levies and negotiate new payment options. Act quickly, as there are strict deadlines for appeals after certain actions begin.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for an appeal or need help, consulting a tax professional is recommended.
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Frequently asked questions

What happens if you ignore an IRS LT27 notice?

Ignoring an IRS LT27 notice can lead to serious consequences. The IRS may send your account to collections, triggering wage garnishments, bank levies, or tax liens on your property. These actions can damage your financial stability, affect your credit score, and increase interest and penalties on your unpaid tax debt.

Can a payment plan be set up after receiving an IRS LT27 notice?

Yes, you can still set up a payment plan after receiving the IRS LT27 notice. The notice indicates that the IRS hasn’t received your Online Payment Agreement (OPA) application. Submitting Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, along with the required documentation, can help resolve the issue. Follow the instructions on the notice to avoid further collection actions.

What if the balance cannot be paid in full after receiving an LT27 notice?

If you cannot pay the full balance, you have options. You can apply for an installment agreement with Form 9465 or explore an Offer in Compromise, which allows you to settle your debt for less than the total owed. If you’re facing financial hardship, the IRS may also delay collections temporarily. Make sure to stay in communication with the IRS to prevent more severe actions.

Are there fees associated with installment agreements after receiving an IRS LT27 notice?

Yes, the IRS charges a fee for setting up an installment agreement, but the amount varies depending on the type of plan. Low-income taxpayers may qualify for reduced fees or have them waived entirely. To apply for a reduced fee, you can submit Form 13844, Application for Reduced User Fee for Installment Agreements, along with the necessary documentation.

How quickly should a response be sent after receiving the IRS LT27 notice?

You should respond as soon as possible to avoid your account being sent to collections. The deadline for a response is stated in the IRS LT27 notice, and missing this deadline could result in enforcement actions like wage garnishments or asset seizures. Submitting the required forms, paying the balance, or setting up a payment plan promptly can help prevent these outcomes.
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

  • The IRS LT27 notice is issued when the IRS has not received your Online Payment Agreement application or response.
  • If you ignore the LT27 notice, your account may be forwarded to collections, leading to wage garnishment or liens on your property.
  • Responding promptly by completing necessary paperwork, paying your balance, or setting up a payment plan can help avoid enforcement actions.
  • Low-income taxpayers may qualify for reduced fees on installment agreements, and financial hardship could temporarily delay collections.
  • Submitting Form 9465, Form 433-F, and other requested documents are crucial steps in resolving the LT27 notice.

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