How to Respond to a 4800c Letter From the IRS

A 4800c Letter is a specific communication from the IRS that proposes changes to your tax return. It is not an audit notification or an accusation of wrongdoing. Instead, it signals that the IRS’s automated systems have found a discrepancy between the information you reported and the data the IRS has on file from third parties, such as your employer or a financial institution.

Why You Received a 4800c Letter

The IRS uses automated systems to compare the income, withholdings, and credits you report on your tax return with information from employers and other payers. You receive a 4800c Letter when this system flags a mismatch. For example, a discrepancy might occur if a Form W-2 from an employer shows a different income amount than what you reported, or if you forgot to include income from a Form 1099. The letter details the specific changes the IRS is proposing to align your return with its records.

Information and Documents Needed to Respond

To respond, gather documents to understand the proposed changes. You will need the 4800c Letter itself, as it explains the proposed adjustments. You will also need a complete copy of your tax return (Form 1040) for the tax year indicated on the letter. Finally, gather all supporting documents for the return, including any Forms W-2, Forms 1099, or other records that substantiate the income, deductions, or credits you claimed.

How to Respond to the 4800c Letter

The 4800c Letter includes a Response Form that you must complete and return. If you agree with the changes, you sign and return the form. The IRS will then adjust your return, which may result in a different refund amount or a balance due.

If you disagree with the changes, indicate this on the Response Form and provide a signed statement explaining why. You must also attach copies of any supporting documents that prove your original figures were correct.

You can send your response by mail or fax to the address or number provided in the letter. The IRS also offers a Documentation Upload Tool on its website for submitting your documents electronically.

After You Respond

After you have sent your response, the IRS will review it. It can take several weeks for the IRS to process your response and resolve the issue.

Failing to respond to a 4800c Letter has direct consequences. If you do not reply by the deadline, the IRS will automatically proceed with the proposed changes to your tax return. This could result in a reduced refund or a bill for taxes owed, and any refund you are due will be held until the issue is resolved.