Why did I receive this notice?
We issue Notice CP 12 when we correct one or more mistakes on your tax return, and
- the overpayment is different from the one you expected, or
- you have an overpayment when you thought you either owed money or had an even balance.
The first page of the notice shows you the figures on your return and the figures after our corrections. The second page tells you what items we corrected. It also explains any penalty and interest charges.
Is that all there is to it?
Sometimes, yes. If you agree with the correction we made, you don't need to reply to the notice. Just make sure you note the correction on your return for future reference. We'll issue a refund in six to eight weeks, unless you owe other amounts we're required to collect, such as unpaid tax, penalty, or interest on another tax account.
If you don't agree with the correction we made, and:
- You show us you're entitled to a larger refund, you can go ahead and cash the check. We'll issue another check for the additional overpayment six to eight weeks after we correct your account.
- You show us you're entitled to a smaller refund (or no refund at all), there are two things you need to do:
- First, DON'T CASH THE REFUND CHECK. Write VOID on the back of the check and return it to us so we can credit your account. If you're entitled to a smaller refund, we'll issue another check for the correct amount six to eight weeks after we make the correction. If you already cashed the check, send us your repayment immediately. Since we made the mistake, we'll make sure we don't charge you any interest, but only if you send the repayment.
- Second, call or write to explain why your figures were correct when you filed the return.
If the correction is simple, such as removing an additional exemption we gave you by mistake, just call us at the number printed at the top of the notice with your explanation and we'll make the correction on the spot. We'll also make sure we give you enough time to send the refund back before we send any notices asking for payment.
If the correction is more complicated, such as an error in our calculation of your capital gains tax, it's best to send us an explanation along with a copy of your Schedule D, capital gains worksheet, etc.
How much time to I have to respond if I don't agree with the changes?
It's important that your account reflects accurate information, so check your figures against ours to determine whose figures are correct. Like we mentioned before, there's no need to respond if you agree with the correction. If you don't agree, though, please call or write to us as soon as possible so we can make any necessary corrections.
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