What This Letter Means
Letter 89C is titled Amended Return Required to Correct Account. You contacted the IRS and said something on your return was wrong. The IRS can't make that change based on a letter or a phone call. It needs an amended return.
The IRS uses this letter in several situations. Common ones:
- You responded to an IRS letter about your return and said you made an error on your wages or federal withholding, gave the correct numbers, but didn't include a corrected return or Form 1040-X.
- You responded to a proposal about a questionable credit and asked to amend your return without attaching Form 1040-X.
Either way, the message is the same. If you want the change, file the amended return.
What to Do
- Prepare Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, for the tax year in the letter.
- Show the original figures, the corrected figures, and a clear explanation of each change.
- Attach the documents that support the change, such as corrected Forms W-2 or 1099.
- Mail it where the letter tells you to send it. If the letter gives no address, follow the Form 1040-X instructions.
- Keep a copy of the amended return and proof of mailing.
If Your Refund Is on Hold
Letter 89C often shows up when a refund is being held while the IRS verifies your return. The refund won't be finalized on the corrected numbers until the amended return is processed. If the correction lowers your refund or creates a balance, pay what you owe to stop interest from growing.
If You Didn't Ask for a Change
If you never told the IRS your return was wrong, call the number on the letter and ask what triggered it before you file anything.
If you received Letter 89C and need help correcting your return, call us at (813) 229-7100.