CP 90/CP297 NOTICES—WHAT THEY MEAN

A CP90 is a notice used for individuals, while the CP297 is for businesses. Still, the content of the notices is essentially the same: If you've received either the CP90 or CP297 Notice, the IRS is notifying you that you have an outstanding unpaid balance due for unpaid taxes, and you've failed to respond to previous notices. Therefore, the IRS will soon begin levying your assets to collect that unpaid debt. That means that the IRS can seize your wages, state tax returns, social security benefits, and other property (including your home, car, and other personal items).

IF YOU'VE RECEIVED A CP90/CP297 NOTICE

If you have received a CP90 or CP297 notice, you need to respond. If possible, pay the amount owed; but you should still respond even if you can't pay the bill. You still have options. For example, you can submit an “offer in compromise,” which is basically proposing a new amount you can pay.

You can also challenge the amount due by filing a Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing.

IT'S CRITICAL TO ACT QUICKLY

The notice usually gives you 30-days (from the date of the notice) to pay before the IRS begins to take action, but the notice will also include a specific due date. Make sure to look for this date because delays in the mail can rob you of the precious days you may need before responding.

But you don't want to wait the entire time before you act. Instead, retain qualified tax counsel as soon as possible. Your lawyer can advise you on options for disputing the claim, can help negotiate a new amount due or manageable payment schedule, and—most importantly—work with the IRS to stop taking immediate action against you.

The earlier you have a tax attorney, the earlier you and your lawyer begin working with the IRS, the more options you will have.

If you have received a CP90 or any other notification from the IRS, call Senior Partner, Tax Controversy Attorney, and former IRS attorney Brandon A. Keim at (602) 200-7399 or contact him online to discuss your options.