How to handle a CP80 notice from the IRS when they cashed my check but claim no tax return received?

This is unfortunately pretty common with paper-filed returns. The IRS cashes the checks quickly, but the returns themselves go into a different processing pipeline and sometimes get separated or delayed. Here's what you should do: First, make a copy of your original return if you haven't already. Then send a new copy of your return with a brief letter explaining the situation and referencing your CP80 notice number. Write "COPY - DO NOT PROCESS" in red at the top of each page of the tax return. Include a copy of your canceled check and the CP80 notice itself. Also, call the IRS at the number on your notice and explain the situation. They can make a note in your account that you're responding to the notice and may be able to see that your payment was received, which helps your case.

When I had a similar issue last year, I tried calling the IRS for weeks and couldn't get through. Then I found this service called taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) that really helped me. It analyzes your IRS notices and tax documents and gives you personalized guidance. I uploaded my CP80 notice and my proof of payment, and it immediately explained what happened and gave me a step-by-step response plan. The service even drafted a letter template for me to send to the IRS that cited the specific regulations about timely payments. Saved me hours of research and worry.

Just wanted to update that I tried taxr.ai after my skeptical comment above and I'm actually really impressed. I uploaded my CP80 notice and bank statement showing my check was cashed, and it immediately identified the disconnect in IRS processing systems. The service created a customized response package for me with a formal letter citing relevant IRS procedural rules. I followed their instructions about marking the return copy as "DO NOT PROCESS" and including specific documentation. Got confirmation last week that my issue was resolved - no penalties and my account shows the return was filed on time. Definitely saved me from what could have been months of back-and-forth with the IRS.

I had the EXACT same problem last year and spent WEEKS trying to get through to someone at the IRS. Their phone lines are a nightmare. After getting disconnected like 15 times, I found this service called Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) that actually gets you through to an IRS agent. There's a demo of how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c I was able to talk to a real person at the IRS who confirmed they had received my payment but not my return. They put notes in my file about the situation and told me exactly where to send my copy of the return. Having that conversation saved me from getting additional notices and potentially facing penalties.

Well I owe everyone an apology, especially Profile 18. I was super skeptical about that Claimyr service but I was desperate after getting a similar notice and decided to try it. IT ACTUALLY WORKS. I got connected to an IRS agent within about 45 minutes (without having to actually wait on the phone myself). The agent confirmed they had my payment but not my return. She made notes in my account about the situation and gave me a specific address to send my documentation. She also gave me her ID number to reference in my letter. Just heard back yesterday that my account has been corrected with no penalties. Would never have gotten this resolved so quickly without being able to actually talk to someone.

I'm a tax preparer and see this issue a lot with mailed returns. One thing I recommend beyond what others have suggested is to request an Account Transcript from the IRS. You can get this online at irs.gov if you create an account. The transcript will show the payment you made and can be helpful documentation to include with your response. Also, when you mail your copy of the return, use certified mail with return receipt so you have proof of when the IRS received it. Keep all documentation for at least 3 years in case any questions come up again.

This just happened to my sister too! She made a copy of her return, wrote a letter explaining the situation, included proof that her check was cashed, and sent it all certified mail. Make sure you keep the certified mail receipt! She called a couple weeks later to confirm they received it, and they told her it would take 8-10 weeks to process but she wouldn't be charged any penalties since she had proof her payment was received on time.

I went through something very similar earlier this year! The key is to respond quickly and keep everything organized. Here's what worked for me: 1. Make copies of EVERYTHING - your original return, the CP80 notice, bank statements showing the cashed check, and any correspondence 2. Write "COPY - DO NOT PROCESS" in red at the top of each page of your tax return copy 3. Include a cover letter explaining that they cashed your check but claim they didn't receive your return - reference the CP80 notice number 4. Send everything via certified mail to the address listed on your CP80 notice I also recommend calling the IRS (even though it's painful) to get a representative to note in your account that you're responding to the notice. This creates a paper trail that you're addressing the issue proactively. The whole process took about 10 weeks to fully resolve, but I didn't get hit with any penalties since I had proof of timely payment. Stay organized and document everything - you'll get through this!