CP05A Notice – Urgent Things You Need to Do to Claim Your Refund

A dreaded letter from the IRS has arrived – a CP05A notice. Holding it in your hand,  your heart skips a beat, and countless thoughts run through your mind. What does this notice mean? Is there a problem with your tax return? Should you be worried?

Well, take a deep breath and relax. While receiving a letter from the IRS is frightening, a CP05A notice doesn’t always spell trouble. In this blog post, we will discuss what a CP05A notice is and guide you through the necessary steps you should take should you receive one in your mailbox. 

Why Did I Receive a  CP05A Notice? 

Receiving a CP05A Notice doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem on your tax return. It’s a form of communication from the IRS to let you know that they are reviewing certain aspects of your tax return and require you to supply additional documents for verification before processing your tax refund. The notice typically outlines the specific areas they are examining, such as your income, withholding, or tax credits. The IRS also indicates in the notice the documents you need to provide and the due date for submission. 

What Is The Difference Between CP05 and CP05A Notice?

A CP05 notice simply tells you that the IRS is reviewing your tax return and is holding your tax refund until they complete their review. A CP05 notice typically does not require any specific action from you unless stated otherwise.

On the other hand, a CP05A notice is a follow-up letter sent within 60 days of your CP05 notice. It is similar to a CP05 notice but includes an additional request for specific information or documentation to complete the tax return review. The CP05A notice will specify what information is needed and provide instructions on how to provide it.

What Should I Do if You Receive A CP05a Notice From the IRS?

If you receive a CP05A notice from the IRS, it’s important to handle it promptly and correctly. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Carefully examine the notice: Take the time to read through the letter thoroughly. Understand why the IRS is reviewing your tax return and pay attention to the specific areas they are focusing on. Look for any instructions or actions that are required from your end.

2. Collect the requested information: If the notice asks for additional documentation, gather everything as soon as possible. This may involve collecting copies of forms, receipts, or supporting documents related to your income, withholding, or tax credits. Ensure you provide accurate and complete information to resolve the IRS’s concerns.

3. Respond within the given timeframe: The CP05A notice will specify how long you must respond or send the requested information. Usually, you have 30 days from the date of the notice. It’s important to stick to this schedule to avoid any delays or other problems.

4. Follow the provided instructions: If the notice tells you how to respond or where to send the information asked, make sure to follow those directions strictly. This could be done by sending the documents to a certain address by mail or online. You can make sure the review process goes smoothly by following the steps given.

5. Seek professional guidance if necessary: If you find the CP05A notice confusing or need further assistance, consider consulting a qualified tax professional. They can help you understand the notice and guide you through the necessary steps. (Schedule a no-obligation consultation with us if you need assistance).

What Can I Expect After Submitting My Documents for CP05A Notice?

Once the IRS reviews the documentation you provided, they may propose adjustments to your tax return. They will ask you to sign the adjustment, which could change the amount of your refund or the amount you owe.

If you disagree with the suggested adjustment, you have the option to request a meeting with an IRS examiner or file an appeal. It is important to take the appropriate steps to address any issues and ensure that they hear your concerns. If you reach an agreement with the IRS within 90 days, no further action will be required. However, if you do not reach an agreement, you may receive a Notice of Deficiency.

If you agree with the proposed adjustment, you can sign the form, and the IRS will process your adjusted refund. Typically, you can expect to receive the refund within six to eight weeks. However, if the revision results in you owing money to the IRS, you have two options. You can make the payment immediately or set up a payment plan. The IRS offers installment agreements that allow you to pay off the debt over time. Additionally, if you are experiencing financial hardship and are unable to pay your full tax debt, there are options available, such as an Offer in Compromise, which enables you to settle your debt for less than the original amount owed.

What Will Happen if You Do Not Submit Your  Documents on Time?

If you fail to submit the requested documents to the IRS within 30 days of receiving the CP05A notice, it can lead to several potential outcomes. Firstly, there may be a delay in processing your tax refund. By providing the requested documents, you allow the IRS to complete the review of your tax return and proceed with issuing your refund in a timely manner.

There is also a possibility that your refund could be denied. The IRS relies on the requested documents to accurately evaluate your tax return and determine eligibility for a refund.

Additionally, the lack of response or submission of requested documents may raise concerns for the IRS, potentially subjecting your tax return to increased scrutiny or even triggering a full audit. To avoid such situations and ensure a smooth process, it is crucial to promptly address the IRS’s requests and provide the necessary documents as requested in the CP05A notice.

In conclusion, there is no need to panic if you receive a CP05A notice from the IRS. By responding promptly and providing accurate documentation, you can ensure the smooth processing of your refund. If you feel uncertain or overwhelmed by your situation, remember that reaching out to a tax professional for guidance is always a wise decision to make.