Sample Letter to the IRS Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to request a correction to my tax return. My social security number is 123-45-6789, and I filed my tax return for the 2020 tax year. I received a notice from the IRS stating that I owe additional taxes due to an error in my return.
IRS Penalty Abatement Request Letter State the type of penalty you want removed. Include an explanation of the events and specific facts and circumstances of your situation, and explain how these events were outside of your control. Attach documents that will prove your case.
Look for the official IRS logo and letterhead, including the correct address and phone number. Dates should be recent, accurate, and accurately formatted (month spelled out), and they should include official IRS security or file numbers you can refer to for more information. A letter won't have this information.
3. Structure Your Letter Properly Your name, address, and contact information. A statement expressing your desire to appeal the IRS's findings. The tax period(s) in question. A list of the items you disagree with and why. Facts supporting your position. Any relevant law or authority supporting your case.
The IRS will review your correspondence and respond ingly. Allow at least 30 days for reply. There's usually no need to call the department.
The letter's formatting and language should be professional, with no typos, grammatical errors, or strange fonts. It should address you by name and refer to details specific to your tax situation, such as your Social Security number and tax years. IRS scammers won't have access to this kind of information.
When requesting abatement of penalties for reasonable cause, your statement should include supporting documentation and address the following items: The reason the penalty was charged. The daily delinquency penalty may be charged for either a late filed return, an incomplete return, or both.
Consider Certified Mail: For added security and proof of delivery, you may choose to send your mailpiece via certified mail with the return receipt requested. This provides confirmation that the IRS received your documents.
The USPS offers many different mail services, but Certified Mail is the best option for sending any tax-related documents.
TLDR: Don't just use Priority Mail thinking that since it's by the government and has tracking that the IRS will accept that as proof of mailing. Certified Mail or Registered Mail are the best and really should be the only methods you use.