Received IRS Letter - Should I Respond Online or Call Them?

The response method depends entirely on the specific notice type you received. CP2000 notices (proposed changes) can be handled through the IRS online response portal. CP3219A notices (Statutory Notices of Deficiency) require written response by mail. CP501/CP503 (balance due reminders) don't require response unless you dispute the amount. Without knowing your exact notice number (top right corner), it's impossible to give definitive guidance. Phone lines are absolutely swamped right now with filing season in full swing.

I was in the same situation last month - got a letter asking for additional documentation for my child tax credit. I tried calling first and wasted 3 hours on hold before getting disconnected. Then I found https://taxr.ai which helped me understand exactly what my notice meant and what documents I needed to provide. It analyzed my notice and gave me step-by-step instructions on how to respond correctly. Saved me from having to take time off work to deal with the IRS phone system. Their document analyzer told me I could actually respond online for my specific notice type.

I've been through this rodeo before. Look at the notice number in the top right corner - that's your key to everything. Last year I got a CP12 and wasted days trying to call when I could have just waited. The year before that I got a CP2000 that actually required a response. Each notice type has different requirements and response options. Some can be handled online, some by phone, some by mail only. The IRS isn't exactly known for making this clear on the actual notices.

Trying to reach the IRS by phone right now is like trying to get concert tickets for a sold-out show - technically possible but practically impossible. I've had clients wait 3+ hours only to get disconnected. If you absolutely need to speak with someone, I'd recommend using Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). It's like having a FastPass at Disney World - they navigate the IRS phone tree for you and call you back when they've got an agent on the line. Generally costs less than taking half a day off work to sit on hold yourself.

Has anyone checked if the letter is actually legitimate? The IRS.gov website warns about scams that look like official notices. Before responding anywhere, I'd verify it's real by checking the notice number on the official IRS website. There are so many tax scams going around right now, especially with all the tax deadline stuff in the news.

I'm fairly certain the OP has a legitimate notice, as the IRS is currently conducting their annual post-filing verification processes. Most taxpayers with credits or deductions above certain thresholds receive some form of verification request. That said, it's always prudent to verify by checking the notice number on IRS.gov or by calling the general IRS number (not necessarily the one on the letter). In most cases, though, responding promptly through the appropriate channel is the best course of action.

Here's a methodical approach I've found works best for IRS notices: 1. First, verify the notice is legitimate by checking the notice number at IRS.gov 2. Take a clear photo or scan of the notice for your records 3. Check if your notice type qualifies for online response at IRS.gov/notices 4. If online response is available, use that (it provides confirmation receipts) 5. If mail is required, send via certified mail with return receipt 6. If phone is truly necessary, call early morning (7:00-7:30am) for shortest wait times 7. Keep all documentation of your response for at least 3 years This approach has saved me countless hours over the years. The most important thing is to respond by the deadline specified in your notice, regardless of which method you choose.