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.
An IRS audit letter typically contains the taxpayer's name, tax ID number, contact information, and a request for additional documentation to support claims on the tax return. It may also include the name of the IRS officer handling the case and invite the taxpayer to a meeting.
The IRS provides clear guidelines on what your letter should include: 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.
In your formal protest, include a statement that you want to appeal the changes proposed by the IRS and include all of the following: ∎ Your name, address, and a daytime telephone number. ∎ List of all disputed issues, tax periods or years involved, proposed changes, and reasons you disagree with each issue.
Your audit reconsideration letter should: Say that it is an audit reconsideration request. Identify the taxpayer, the tax period(s), the type of tax (such as income tax), and, if available, the name and contact information for the IRS auditor who previously worked the case. Explain the circumstances for the audit,
The body of your IRS audit response letter should: Address each item or finding mentioned in the IRS audit letter. State your position on these items. Include as much detail as possible, including dates and circumstances, to support your position. Reference the documentation you have included to support your position.
Requesting an appeal If taxpayers are eligible to submit an appeal, they can write a letter to request an appeal and mail it to the IRS address on the letter they received with their appeal rights.
Generally, the IRS can include returns filed within the last three years in an audit. If we identify a substantial error, we may add additional years. We usually don't go back more than the last six years. The IRS tries to audit tax returns as soon as possible after they are filed.
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.
If your audit letter has the contact telephone number 866-897-0177 or 866-897-0161, you can check the status of your audit in your individual online account under the 'Records and Status' tab. You can see the date the audit started, when letters were issued and the date when the next response is due.