This is Jean Wetzler.
I'm talking with Cheryl Sherwood from the IRS Small Business/Self-Employed division about IRS letters and notices.
Cheryl, the IRS often sends letters and notices to taxpayers.
What kind of notice might a small business taxpayer receive?
Typically, our correspondence will ask for information, notify a taxpayer of a change, or request a payment.
The law requires small business owners to file certain returns and pay the correct amount of tax.
An IRS notice will cover a very specific issue about a tax account or a tax return to help the taxpayer meet their obligations.
Let's say I'm a small business owner.
What should I do if I get a notice?
Well, first of all, don't panic, but don't ignore the notice either.
Read the notice carefully and give a copy to your tax professional, if you use one.
If you agree, generally, you don't need to do anything.
If you're notified of and agree with a proposed change, and you'll owe tax as a result of that change, you'll want to make a payment.
If you make quarterly estimated payments, you may need to adjust the amount of your future payments.
What if I don't agree with the change?
What's next?
If you don't agree, it's particularly important that you respond as requested.
In a letter to the IRS, explain why you disagree.
Include any documents or information you want us to consider.
There will be a tear-off portion at the bottom of the notice that you need to enclose with your response.
Be sure to keep a copy of everything.
If I want to talk to someone about the notice, what number should I call?
The best phone number to call will be printed on the upper right-hand corner of the notice you receive.
Although we have other phone numbers, notably our business and specialty hotline numbers for general issues, the number shown on your notice is the one to call.
When you call, it's usually a good idea to have a copy of your tax return in hand, along with the notice.
That will help us work with you to get your issue resolved quickly.
Where can small business owners get more information?
Our Web site, IRS.gov, has many resources.
If you type in the words "notice what to do" in the search box, you'll find links to more information about IRS notices to help you plan your course of action.
Thank you, Cheryl.
I've been talking with Cheryl Sherwood of the IRS.
This is Jean Wetzler.
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