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Letter 950E: What It Means and How to Address It

Silas Bamigbola avatar image
Last updated 11/24/2024 by
Silas Bamigbola
Fact checked by
Ante Mazalin
Summary:
Letter 950E is sent by the IRS to inform taxpayers of an estate or gift tax audit and to request additional information. This letter requires prompt attention as it signals potential discrepancies or missing information related to estate or gift tax filings. Ignoring this notice could lead to penalties, interest charges, and other legal actions. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about Letter 950E, including its purpose, what it means for your estate or gift taxes, and the steps you should take to address it.
Receiving a notice from the IRS regarding your estate or gift taxes, such as Letter 950E, can be concerning. This specific letter is sent to notify taxpayers that their estate or gift tax filings are under audit. The IRS may require additional information or clarification to ensure compliance with tax laws. Responding promptly and understanding the purpose of this notice can help avoid penalties, interest, or further legal actions. In this article, we break down the details of Letter 950E, why it’s issued, how it impacts you, and the actions you can take to resolve any issues.

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Understanding IRS Letter 950E

Letter 950E is issued by the IRS as part of its efforts to ensure estate and gift tax compliance. This letter indicates that your estate or gift tax filings are under audit or require additional documentation for verification. Here’s a closer look at why this letter is sent and what it means for taxpayers:
  • Estate tax verification: The IRS may need to confirm that estate tax filings accurately reflect the value of transferred assets.
  • Gift tax clarification: If you’ve reported large gifts, the IRS may require further details to confirm compliance with annual and lifetime gift tax exclusions.
  • Information inconsistencies: The letter could be triggered by discrepancies between your filings and third-party data or other returns.
Ignoring Letter 950E could lead to penalties or, in some cases, the imposition of additional taxes. Providing the requested documentation on time can prevent these complications and ensure that your tax records remain in good standing.

Pro Tip

Organize and retain all relevant documentation for estate or gift taxes, including asset appraisals and gift records. This will streamline your response if the IRS requests additional information.
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The impact of Letter 950E on taxpayers

Letter 950E can have several implications for taxpayers, especially those with significant estate or gift assets. Here’s how it may impact you:
  • Potential financial penalties: Failing to provide the necessary documentation could lead to penalties, especially if the IRS finds discrepancies or undeclared assets.
  • Interest accrual: If additional taxes are assessed due to inaccuracies in your estate or gift tax filings, interest may accrue on the owed amount.
  • Possible legal actions: In severe cases, the IRS may initiate legal actions to recover unpaid taxes or enforce penalties.
This letter’s primary purpose is to ensure compliance with estate and gift tax laws, which can have complex rules. Taking immediate action upon receiving Letter 950E can help minimize these impacts and avoid unnecessary financial burdens.

Steps to take when you receive Letter 950E

Receiving Letter 950E requires immediate and thorough attention. Follow these steps to address the letter promptly:
  • Review the letter: Carefully read through Letter 950E to understand the information being requested, the tax year under audit, and any specific instructions.
  • Organize your records: Gather any documentation relevant to your estate or gift taxes, such as appraisals, receipts, and prior filings. Accurate and comprehensive records are essential for the audit process.
  • Seek professional guidance: Consider consulting a tax professional or estate planner who specializes in estate and gift taxes to ensure your response meets IRS requirements.
  • Submit the requested information: Provide the IRS with the documentation they’ve requested, ensuring it’s complete and organized. Missing or incomplete information could delay the audit and lead to further scrutiny.
  • Respond promptly: Delaying your response can lead to penalties. Aim to respond within the time frame specified in the letter, or reach out to the IRS if you need an extension.

Pro Tip

If the IRS audit finds errors, consider negotiating a payment plan if additional taxes are owed. This can prevent further penalties and interest accrual.

Common reasons for receiving IRS Letter 950E

There are several reasons why the IRS may send Letter 950E. Here’s a closer look at the common causes:

Discrepancies in asset valuation

One of the main reasons for receiving Letter 950E is inconsistencies in asset valuations reported on estate or gift tax returns. The IRS may find that the values of transferred assets do not match their current market values, or they may require appraisals to verify accuracy.

Missing or incomplete documentation

The IRS may issue this letter if required documentation, such as appraisals or transfer records, is missing or incomplete. Providing all necessary information can prevent additional requests or penalties.

Issues with lifetime gift exclusions

If you’ve reported large gifts, the IRS may want to verify that you are in compliance with lifetime gift exclusions. Misreporting could trigger the need for clarification, especially if annual exclusion limits are exceeded.

Estate tax filing errors

Errors or omissions in estate tax filings can lead to the issuance of Letter 950E. This could include inaccurate filing amounts, missing assets, or issues with prior tax payments. Reviewing your filings for accuracy can prevent these complications.

How to respond to Letter 950E

Responding to Letter 950E requires careful attention to detail and compliance with IRS instructions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to respond effectively:

Submit additional documentation

The first step in addressing Letter 950E is to submit any additional documentation the IRS has requested. This may include appraisals, proof of transfer, or receipts from transactions. Ensure that your submission is complete to avoid further requests from the IRS.

Verify and correct any inconsistencies

Double-check your estate or gift tax records to ensure they align with IRS expectations. Correct any discrepancies before submitting your response to minimize the chance of additional follow-up letters or audits.

Seek assistance from a tax advisor

Navigating an IRS audit on estate or gift taxes can be complex, and working with a tax advisor experienced in estate planning can help streamline the process. They can help ensure your response is accurate and aligns with IRS guidelines.

Pro Tip

Consider using a CPA or attorney specialized in estate planning for complex tax issues. They can represent you in communications with the IRS, providing additional assurance.

Consequences of ignoring Letter 950E

Failing to respond to Letter 950E can lead to serious consequences. Here’s what could happen if the notice is ignored:
  • Increased penalties and interest: The IRS may impose additional penalties if requested information is not provided, and interest may accrue on any owed amounts.
  • Potential for enforced collection actions: The IRS can initiate collection actions, such as liens or levies, if the issue remains unresolved.
  • Legal actions: In extreme cases, ignoring an IRS audit on estate or gift taxes could lead to legal proceedings to collect unpaid taxes or enforce compliance.
Responding promptly and providing the necessary information can prevent these outcomes and ensure you remain compliant with tax obligations.

Ways to manage your estate and gift tax obligations

Managing estate and gift taxes requires proactive planning and careful record-keeping. Here are some strategies to consider:

Keep accurate records of all gifts and transfers

Documenting each gift and transfer ensures that you have a comprehensive record in the event of an audit. Keep receipts, appraisals, and related documentation for all major transactions.

Understand annual and lifetime exclusions

Familiarize yourself with IRS gift tax exclusions to ensure you stay within allowable limits. Staying within annual exclusion limits can reduce your lifetime gift tax liability.

Seek regular tax advice for large estates

For large estates, working with a tax professional can ensure compliance with complex estate and gift tax regulations. Regular consultations can help you manage your obligations effectively.
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Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I cannot provide all requested documentation?

If you are unable to gather all the documents requested in Letter 950E, contact the IRS directly using the phone number provided in the letter. Explain your situation and request guidance on alternative documentation that may satisfy their requirements. In some cases, a tax professional may also help you identify substitute records that could meet IRS standards.

How long do I have to respond to Letter 950E?

Letter 950E generally specifies a response deadline, which is typically within 30 days of the letter’s date. Prompt action is important because delays could result in penalties or interest if additional taxes are owed. If more time is needed, contact the IRS to request an extension, explaining any circumstances that might justify a delay.

Can I handle the response to Letter 950E myself?

Yes, you can respond to Letter 950E on your own, but it’s often beneficial to work with a tax professional, especially if the audit involves complex estate or gift tax issues. A professional can help you prepare accurate documentation, answer IRS inquiries, and potentially reduce the risk of penalties.

Will responding to Letter 950E affect my future tax filings?

Responding to Letter 950E itself won’t necessarily impact future tax filings. However, any inaccuracies or omissions corrected during the audit could affect your tax records. Accurate and compliant responses can reduce the likelihood of further IRS scrutiny in the future.

What happens if the IRS finds issues with my estate or gift tax filings?

If the IRS identifies discrepancies in your estate or gift tax filings, they may assess additional taxes or penalties. In some cases, they may recommend changes to your tax records. It’s possible to negotiate a payment plan if you owe more than expected, and a tax professional can assist you in setting up these arrangements to minimize financial strain.
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

  • Letter 950E is an IRS notice related to estate or gift tax audits, requiring additional documentation or clarification from taxpayers.
  • Responding promptly to the notice can prevent potential penalties, interest, and enforcement actions.
  • Taxpayers should gather accurate documentation, including appraisals, receipts, and prior filings, to facilitate the audit process.
  • Consider consulting a tax professional for assistance with complex estate or gift tax issues to ensure compliance and reduce risk.
  • Failure to respond to Letter 950E could result in penalties, interest accrual, and possible collection actions by the IRS.

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