What This Notice Means
Your return shows a refund. But the income you reported doesn't match what third parties reported to the IRS on Forms W-2, W-2G, or 1099. The IRS is holding your refund until you send information showing the income on your return is correct.
- If your information supports the return, the IRS releases the refund.
- If it doesn't, or if you don't respond, the IRS will disallow all or part of the refund, or tell you if you owe.
Being selected for review doesn't mean you made an error or were dishonest.
What to Do
- Read the notice to see exactly what documentation it asks for.
- Collect copies of your supporting documents. Send copies, not originals.
- Tear off the voucher on the last page of the notice and attach it to your documents.
- Mail everything to the address on the voucher by the date on the notice. Use certified mail and keep a copy of what you sent.
If you don't get your refund or hear back within 60 days, call the number on your notice. Don't call before 60 days.
If You Didn't File This Return
If you didn't file a return claiming these items, someone may have filed using your name and Social Security number. Complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, and mail it to the return address on the notice. Consider an IRS Identity Protection PIN to block future fraudulent returns.
If You're Facing Hardship
If the held refund is causing economic harm, contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service. TAS is independent within the IRS and its help is free.
Review the notice with your tax preparer, and track your refund status online or in the IRS app.
If you received a CP05B notice and your refund is stuck, call us at (813) 229-7100.