Got a letter from the IRS? Every notice has a code and a deadline. Here’s what each one means and what to do next — in plain English.
The IRS sends millions of notices a year. These are the ones most taxpayers see — and the ones most often misunderstood.
Identity verification required before the IRS processes your return. Has a tight deadline. Don’t ignore.
A freeze code that stops your refund. Means the IRS is reviewing something on your return.
The IRS is about to garnish your wages or seize funds. You have a 30-day window to stop it.
If the IRS determines you can’t pay, they may pause collection entirely. Here’s how to request it.
IRS letterhead is designed to get your attention — not to scare you. The critical detail is the notice code in the top-right corner. That tells you what’s actually happening. Every code has a specific meaning, a specific timeline, and a specific response. Understanding the code is the first step to resolving the issue.
Every article on this site is written or reviewed by licensed tax professionals — CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS.
Fresh Start Initiative is an independent editorial resource. When you’re ready to talk to a professional, we connect you with a licensed, A+ BBB-rated tax relief firm from our vetted network — matched to your situation, at no cost to you.