IRS is starting to issue adjustment letters on 1040 returns that were filed back in April. If you receive one of these notices, don’t panic.
Instead, follow these simple steps to figure out what to do.

1. Read the letter in full. It should explain what part of the return they are adjusting, whether it is the income, credits, or deductions on the return.
2. Look at the due date. Usually, IRS letters will have a “must respond by” date telling you when you need to reply. If you miss this date, it is usually more difficult to resolve the issue with the IRS. Some letters also state that they can take action if you miss the deadline, so pay attention to the due date.
3. Look at the return address. IRS usually provides a specific phone number, fax number, or mailing address to send a response. The IRS is a huge organization spanning all fifty states, so make sure you are using the correct address or your information could get lost.
4. Determine if you agree with the changes. If IRS proposes a correction and you agree with it, you usually don’t need to file an amended return.
5. Keep your tax preparer in the loop. Your tax preparer should be made aware of any notices as soon as you receive them. They may need to adjust this year’s return or the refund you have going towards next year.

Don’t be alarmed if you’ve received a letter from the IRS. Not every letter means an audit. Clergy Financial Resources offers several options to help you with the IRS or State notices. Here are two options available. 

• • Pro Advisor I Tax Support
    This support service provides you comprehensive answers to your notice questions. This support service is available at a flat rate of $45.00 for each 30-minutes session.

• • Tax Resolution Support – IRS and State Notices
    Our tax advisors will review your information and determine the next best step. Most are routine and can be resolved in a few simple steps. This service will be billed at an hourly rate of $185.00.

Clergy Financial Resources is available to help. We offer several services that can answer questions, or representation services if you want us to represent you in front of the IRS. For more details, visit our website at https://www.clergyfinancial.com/services/

Clergy Financial Resources serves as a resource for clients to help analyze the complexity of clergy tax law, church payroll & HR issues. Our professionals are committed to helping clients stay informed about tax news, developments and trends in various specialty areas.

This article is intended to provide readers with guidance in tax matters. The article does not constitute, and should not be treated as professional advice regarding the use of any particular tax technique. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information. Clergy Financial Resources and the author do not assume responsibility for any individual’s reliance upon the information provided in the article. Readers should independently verify all information before applying it to a particular fact situation, and should independently determine the impact of any particular tax planning technique. If you are seeking legal advice, you are encouraged to consult an attorney.

For more information or if you need additional assistance, please use the contact information below.

Clergy Financial Resources
11214 86th Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369

Tel: (888) 421-0101 
Fax: (888) 876-5101
Email: clientservices@clergyfinancial.com