A free guide from a Maryland CPA

An IRS letter is a signal. Let’s translate it.

Identify eight common IRS notices, understand what they generally mean, and leave with a calmer, clearer next move.

Find my notice When to get help
01Identify
02Understand
03Act

What did the IRS send you?

The notice number is usually in the top-right corner of page one. If you cannot find it, choose the description that sounds closest.

Notice entries stay in your browser

    Use letters and numbers only. Do not enter your name, SSN, balance, or other personal details.

    Guide-use analytics may be recorded according to your analytics cookie settings. This completion event does not include your typed entry or selected notice. Your entry is not submitted to Nirvana by this tool.

    From confusion to a clean next step

    Some letters need information. Others need representation.

    The difference usually comes down to the stakes, the deadline, the complexity of the facts, and whether you agree with the IRS.

    Start yourself when the facts are straightforward, you agree with the notice, and the IRS provides a clear path to resolve it.

    Get a professional review when records conflict, business activity is involved, or you are unsure what the IRS is asking you to prove.

    Seek help promptly when appeal or Tax Court rights, liens, levies, multiple years, or a substantial balance are involved.

    A consultation does not create an ongoing CPA-client relationship or authorize representation. Additional services begin only after both parties accept a written engagement agreement.