IRS Notices · January 29, 2026 · 6 min read
I Got an IRS Letter — What Now? (CP2000, CP14, and more)
The most common IRS notices, what they actually mean in plain English, and the exact next step for each one.
An IRS envelope in the mail is scary. Most notices are routine and fixable — but you have to respond, and you have to respond on time.
Step one: don't panic, don't ignore it
Every IRS notice has a code in the top-right corner (CP2000, CP14, LT11, etc.) and a response deadline. Both matter.
Common notices and what they mean
- CP14 — You owe a balance. First bill the IRS sends. Pay or set up a plan.
- CP2000 — The income reported on your return doesn't match what employers/banks reported. Proposed change, not a final bill — you can agree or dispute.
- CP501 / CP503 / CP504 — Escalating reminders that you still owe. CP504 is the last warning before collection action.
- LT11 / Letter 1058 — Final notice of intent to levy. You have 30 days to request a hearing. Do not ignore.
- 5071C / 4883C — Identity verification. The IRS thinks someone may have filed a return in your name.
- CP05 — Your return is under review. Refund is held while they verify.
What to do
- Read the notice fully — the deadline and the code drive everything
- Don't call the IRS until you've reviewed your return next to the notice
- Gather supporting documents before responding
- Respond in writing when the notice asks for it — keep a copy
- If you disagree, you have appeal rights — use them