Receiving a correspondence from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) can be intimidating and stir a feeling of worry. Among the numerous notifications sent out by the IRS is the Notice CP12, often associated with overpayment adjustments. This notice should not induce panic as it’s often good news. This article explores in detail the Notice CP12, providing useful information on how to make sense of it and what next actions you can take.
Overview of Notice CP12
The Notice CP12 is normally sent by the IRS when they determine that there is an overpayment on your part. It indicates that the IRS has adjusted your return and as a result, you’ve overpaid your taxes. This could have come about due to miscalculations or mistakes made in your tax return. The surplus amount is usually sent back to the taxpayer or applied to any existing tax debt.
The Approach to Understanding Notice CP12
Reading your notice carefully is pivotal to understanding what steps are necessary. The IRS usually provides a detailed explanation. It’ll denote which sections of your tax return they’ve modified and the rationale behind their changes. If the adjustments are unclear, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a tax professional.
Anatomy of Notice CP12
The Notice CP12 typically consists of a notice detailing the adjustments made, a comparison summary, an explanation of the changes page, and a payment voucher if you need to make additional payments. In the notice, the IRS provides clear instructions about what you need to do.
Responding to Notice CP12
If you agree with the adjustments made by the IRS, then no direct response is necessary on your part. If you have overpaid, expect a refund cheque in the near future, or the amount will be applied to your next tax years if you owe any. However, if you disagree, you will need to reach out to the IRS as soon as possible and provide any missing documentation.
Seeking Professional Assistance
If you have uncertainties or the Notice CP12 seems complex, it’s suggested to get in touch with a tax professional. This could be an IRS certified public accountant, an enrolled agent, or a tax attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do if I disagree with the changes made by the IRS?
If you disagree with the changes, you should contact the IRS immediately and provide any necessary documentation to support your claim. - Can Notice CP12 lead to an IRS audit?
Not necessarily, Notice CP12 is generally related to overpayment adjustments and does not directly relate to an audit. - Will CP12 affect my next year’s tax return?
If your CP12 notice includes adjustments that carry over into the next tax year, it could potentially affect your future return.
Understanding the IRS Notice CP12 is key in ensuring you’re on top of your tax affairs. It is a benign document, often bringing good news to the recipient, but should still be reviewed meticulously and saved for future tax reference.
