What To Do Next After Receiving an IRS Notice

What To Do Next After Receiving an IRS Notice

Receiving an IRS notice can be confusing, especially if it is unclear what the notice requires or what steps—if any—should be taken next. In many cases, people are unsure whether immediate action is necessary, whether the issue can be resolved later, or whether professional help is required.

This page explains the common next steps people consider after receiving an IRS notice, depending on their circumstances. It is intended to help readers understand available paths forward, not to recommend a specific course of action.

How People Typically Respond to IRS Notices

There is no single “correct” response to every IRS notice. What makes sense in one situation may not apply in another. Common factors include:

  • Whether the tax balance can be paid in full

  • Whether required tax returns have already been filed

  • Whether the notice reflects an error or missing information

  • Whether the situation feels manageable or overwhelming

Understanding these distinctions can make IRS notices easier to interpret and reduce unnecessary stress.

Common Next Steps People Consider

Below are several common situations that lead people to seek more information after receiving an IRS notice. Each page explains what that situation generally means and how it fits into the IRS process.

Can’t Pay the Taxes Owed

Some people agree with the amount shown on the notice but are unable to pay it in full. This page explains what that situation typically involves and what options are commonly discussed.
Can’t Pay Taxes Explained.

Missed or Unfiled Tax Returns

In some cases, an IRS notice relates to tax returns that were never filed or were filed late. This page explains how missed filings are handled and why they often affect available options.
Missed Filing Explained.

Payment Options

When a balance is owed, the IRS offers several ways to address payment over time or through alternative arrangements. This page explains common payment-related terms and structures used by the IRS.
IRS Payment Options Explained

When People Get Professional Help

Some situations feel straightforward, while others feel too complex or stressful to handle alone. This page explains the circumstances that often lead people to consult tax professionals and what that decision generally involves.
When to Get Help Explained

What This Page Is — and Is Not

This page is intended to:

  • Explain common paths people consider after receiving an IRS notice

  • Provide context for different response options

  • Help readers understand terminology used in IRS communications

This page is not intended to:

  • Tell readers what they should do

  • Replace professional tax or legal advice

  • Evaluate individual circumstances

Each situation is different, and the pages linked above address specific topics in more detail.