What this notice means
The IRS fixed one or more mistakes on your return. Now your refund is different from what you expected, or you're getting a refund even though you expected to owe or break even.
If you agree with the changes, you don't need to reply. Your refund check should arrive in 4 to 6 weeks, provided you don't owe other taxes or debts that the IRS is required to collect.
Why you got it
- The IRS corrected a mistake on your return, and your refund came out different from what you expected.
- You expected to owe money or to break even, but the corrections give you a refund.
What to do now
- Read the notice, including 'What we changed on your return,' to see what changed and how it affects your refund.
- If you agree, you don't need to respond. You might fix your own copy of the return to match, but don't send it to the IRS.
- Check the status of your refund online if you want to track it.
- If you disagree, call the toll-free number in the 'Where to find more information' section by the date on the notice.
If you don't respond
If you agree, your refund is processed as the notice shows. If you disagree but don't contact the IRS by the date on the notice, you lose the formal right to have the changes reversed and to appeal to the U.S. Tax Court, though the IRS will still consider documents you send later.
Questions people ask
When will I get my refund?
You should get it in 4 to 6 weeks, provided you don't owe other taxes or debts that the IRS is required to collect.
Will the IRS undo the changes if I disagree?
In most cases, yes, if the changes reduced the refund you asked for. You don't have to send an explanation, but it can help. If the IRS doesn't get information supporting your original return, it may send your case to audit, and someone from audit will reach out within 6 weeks.