Understanding your CP13A Notice
We made changes to your return because we found an error involving your Earned Income Credit. You're not due a refund nor do you owe an additional amount because of our changes. Your account balance is zero.
Printable samples of this notice (PDF)
Tax publications you may find useful
- Form 1040 (Schedule 8812) Child Tax Credit
- Publication 972, Child Tax Credit
- Publication 596, Earned Income Credit (EIC)
- Find a copy of any necessary tax forms and instructions
How to get help
Calling the 1-800 number listed on the top right corner of your notice is the fastest way to get your questions answered.
You can also authorize someone (such as an accountant) to contact the IRS on your behalf using this Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative (Form 2848).
Or you may qualify for help from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic.
What you need to do
- Review the notice and compare our changes to the information on your tax return.
- Correct the copy of your tax return that you kept for your records.
- You don't need to do anything if you agree with the notice.
- If you disagree with the notice, please contact us at the toll-free number listed on its top right corner (within 60 days of its date).
You may want to...
- Download copies of the following materials (if they weren't included with your notice):
- Call 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676) to have forms and publications mailed to you.
- Review the rules for claiming an Earned Income Credit.
- Complete and send us a Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative to authorize someone (such as an accountant) to contact us on your behalf.
Answers to Common Questions
What should I do if I disagree with the changes you made?
Contact us at the toll free number listed on the top right corner of your notice if you disagree with the changes we made.
What should I do if I need to make another correction to my tax return?
You'll need to file an amended return to make a correction.
What's the difference between the "Child Tax Credit" and the "Additional Child Tax Credit?" Can I qualify for both?
The Child Tax Credit is for people who have a qualifying child. The maximum amount you can claim is $1000 for each qualifying child. The Additional Child Tax Credit is for individuals who receive less than the full amount of Child Tax Credit. You may qualify for both the Child Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit.
How do I claim an Additional Child Tax Credit?
You can claim the credit by completing a Form 1040 Schedule 8812, Child Tax Credit and attaching it to your income tax return.
My child is turning 18 this year. Can I still get the Additional Child Tax Credit?
No. Your child must be under the age of 17 at the end of 2009 to qualify for both the Child Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit.
Tips for next year
Consider filing your taxes electronically. Filing online can help you avoid mistakes and find credits and deductions that you may qualify for. In many cases you can file for free. Learn more about e-file.
If you have any dependent children, remember to claim the Additional Child Tax Credit the next time you file your income tax return. Complete and attach a Form 1040 Schedule 8812, Child Tax Credit to your return to claim this credit.
Use the EITC Assistant to help you complete your Schedule EIC, Earned Income Credit and claim your Earned Income Credit.
Understanding your notice
Reading your notice
Your notice may look different from the sample because the information contained in your notice is tailored to your situation.
Notice CP13A, Page 1
Notice CP13A, Page 2
