What to Do When the IRS Says Your Information Doesn’t Match in 2022
Has the IRS ever sent you a notice that your information doesn’t match? This can be especially alarming, especially if you don’t understand why it’s happening. The truth is, this isn’t an uncommon occurrence, and it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ve done anything wrong. In this article, we’ll explore why the IRS might send you this notice and what steps you can take to resolve the issue.
Why the IRS Might Send You a Notice That Your Information Doesn’t Match
The IRS matches the information reported on your tax return with the information provided by your employers, financial institutions, and other third-party sources to verify that all income, credits, and deductions are reported correctly. If there’s a discrepancy or mismatch, the IRS will send a notice to request clarification or additional information.
Some common reasons why the IRS might send you a notice that your information doesn’t match include:
– Mismatched Social Security Numbers: If you or a dependent’s social security number is incorrect or missing on your tax return, it will not match the IRS’s records. In this case, the IRS will contact you to verify the correct information.
– Incorrect Income or Deductions: If your employer or other third-party source reports income or deductions that don’t align with your tax return, it may trigger a notice from the IRS. This could be due to an error on their part or yours, such as a typo or incorrect calculation.
– Identity Theft: If someone has stolen your identity and is using it to file fraudulent tax returns, the IRS might issue a notice that your information doesn’t match.
What Should You Do When You Receive a Notice?
If you receive a notice from the IRS that your information doesn’t match, don’t panic. There are straightforward steps you can take to resolve the issue.
First, review the notice thoroughly and determine what information doesn’t match. The notice should include instructions on what you need to do next. Follow these instructions carefully and provide any additional information requested as soon as possible.
If you’re having trouble understanding the notice or what’s being requested, don’t hesitate to reach out to the IRS for assistance. You can contact them using the phone number provided in the notice or visit a local IRS office in person. Note that wait times may be longer due to the pandemic, so be patient.
If you’re unable to resolve the notice on your own, you may want to enlist the help of a tax professional. They can work with the IRS on your behalf and ensure that the issue is resolved correctly.
How to Prevent a Notice from the IRS in the Future
While getting a notice from the IRS can be stressful, there are steps you can take to minimize the likelihood of receiving one in the future:
– Double-check your tax return for accuracy before submitting it. Ensure all income, deductions, and credits are reported correctly.
– Keep all tax-related documents, such as W-2s and 1099s, in a safe and organized place. This will help you keep track of your income and ensure that there are no discrepancies.
– Notify the IRS if you have moved or had a change of address. This will ensure that notices are sent to the correct address and that you don’t miss any important deadlines.
Conclusion
Receiving a notice from the IRS that your information doesn’t match can be unsettling, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps outlined above, you can resolve the issue quickly and prevent it from happening in the future. Remember, the key is to remain calm, review the notice carefully, and take prompt action to resolve the issue.
