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IRS Letter 12A: Return Incomplete — Information Needed

The LTR 12A is a variant of the LTR 12C family. Your return has been flagged as incomplete or containing inconsistent information. The IRS lists exactly what they need before they can finish processing it.

Common Issues

Missing schedules or forms referenced on the main return, signatures missing from a paper return, inconsistent information between the return and supporting documents, missing Social Security numbers for dependents, and missing employer identification numbers on W-2s or 1099s.

How to Respond

Read the request carefully. Match every item requested to your records. Send everything at once. The LTR 12A follows the same response protocol as the LTR 12C: include the tear-off stub, send via certified mail, keep copies, and respond by the deadline.

The most common mistake is sending only some of what was requested. Partial responses add 8 to 12 weeks per round. Complete responses resolve the issue in one cycle.

Processing After Response

Once the IRS receives your complete response, allow 6 to 8 weeks for processing. Your return resumes normal processing and any refund is calculated and issued after the review is complete.

If you've received an LTR 12A, call us at (813) 229-7100 if you need help understanding what they're asking for.

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