What This Notice Means
CP301 is an acknowledgment. It tells you that your information was used to access one of the IRS's online services. The IRS calls it its eAuthentication Acknowledgement Notice. The notice opens with "Thank you for using IRS Online Services."
The IRS sends it so you can confirm the activity was yours. It is not a bill and it doesn't mean anything is wrong with your return.
If You Accessed the Service
You don't need to do anything. The notice reminds you of two things:
- You need your username and password each time you use an IRS online service.
- Keep your registration profile current. The IRS sends a confirmation email each time you update your profile.
If You Did Not Access the Service
Call the IRS at the number printed on your notice right away. Someone may have used your information without your permission. Tell the representative you received CP301 and did not create the account or use the service. Ask what steps the IRS recommends to protect your account.
Tax professionals can also get CP301 in connection with the Tax Pro Account. If you're a tax professional and you didn't create a Tax Pro Account, say so when you call. The IRS routes those cases to its e-Services help desk.
Practical Points
- Keep the notice and write down the date and time you called and who you spoke with.
- Watch your mail for other IRS notices you don't recognize.
- If identity theft is causing a tax problem the IRS hasn't fixed, the Taxpayer Advocate Service can help.
If you got a CP301 for an account you never created and you're worried about identity theft, call us at (813) 229-7100.