The IRS Notice CP2000 can be scary. It means the IRS thinks your income doesn’t match what they have on file. If identity theft is the cause, you need to act fast. Writing a letter to the IRS is a key step in clearing things up.
Dealing with the IRS can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. We’ll provide sample letters to address IRS Notice CP2000 due to identity theft.
Consider this your shortcut to crafting the perfect response. Let’s get started and protect your identity.
Identity Theft Sample Letter To Irs Notice Cp2000
Identity Theft Sample Letter To IRS Notice CP2000
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address as shown on CP2000 Notice]
**Subject: Response to IRS Notice CP2000 – Identity Theft**
Dear IRS,
This letter is in response to IRS Notice CP2000, which I received on [Date you received the notice]. I am writing to inform you that I believe I am a victim of identity theft. I did not file the tax return that is referenced in the notice.
I have taken the following steps to address this issue:
* Filed a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov.
* Filed a police report with the [Name of Police Department] on [Date of Report], report number [Police Report Number].
* I have attached copies of the FTC report and the police report to this letter.
I request that you investigate this matter thoroughly and take the necessary steps to resolve it. Please do not take any further action to collect the tax or assess any penalties related to the fraudulent return.
I would appreciate it if you could provide me with any information you have regarding the fraudulent return, such as the name, address, and Social Security number used. This information will help me to further protect myself from identity theft.
Please contact me at your earliest convenience at the phone number or email address listed above if you require any additional information or documentation.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this serious matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Identity Theft Sample Letter To IRS Notice CP2000
Subject Line: Grab Their Attention
- Craft a subject line that’s both incisive and unambiguous. Think “Response to CP2000 Notice – Identity Theft Claim” or “Re: CP2000 Notice [Notice Number] – Identity Theft Affidavit Enclosed.”
- Including the notice number expedites processing.
Salutation: Keep It Formal (But Friendly)
- Avoid overly casual greetings. Start with “Dear Internal Revenue Service” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
- If you have a specific contact person from previous correspondence, using their name is permissible.
Introduction: State Your Purpose Succinctly
- The opening paragraph should immediately articulate the letter’s raison d’être. For example: “I am writing in response to your CP2000 notice [Notice Number] dated [Date of Notice] regarding discrepancies in my reported income. I contend that the income in question is a result of identity theft.”
- Clearly assert that you are a victim of identity theft and that the income discrepancy is attributable to fraudulent activity.
Body Paragraph 1: Delve into the Details
- Provide a concise narrative of the events leading you to believe you’re a victim of identity theft. Include dates, if known, and any actions you’ve already undertaken (e.g., filing a police report, contacting credit bureaus).
- Be specific about the income source identified in the CP2000 notice. Elucidate why you believe it’s fraudulent. For instance, “The notice references income from [Company Name] that I never received, nor have I ever been employed by that entity.”
Body Paragraph 2: Reference Documentation of Identity Theft
- Explicitly state which corroborating documents you are including.
- Examples: “Enclosed, please find a copy of my IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, along with a copy of the police report I filed on [Date of Report] with the [Police Department] regarding this incident. I am also including copies of [Other Relevant Documents].”
- Do not send original documents; always include photocopies.
Request for Resolution: Be Proactive
- Clearly state what you expect the IRS to do. A typical request might be: “I respectfully request that you investigate this matter thoroughly and abate any penalties or interest associated with the fraudulent income reported under my name and Social Security number.”
- Indicate your willingness to cooperate fully with their investigation.
Closing: Ensure Professionalism
- Employ a formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”
- Include your full name, Social Security number, current address, and a phone number where you can be reached.
- Sign the letter.
- Keep a copy of the letter and all supporting documentation for your records.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Identity Theft and IRS Notice CP2000
This section addresses common questions regarding IRS Notice CP2000 when identity theft is suspected. Understanding your rights and how to respond is crucial in resolving discrepancies effectively.
What is an IRS Notice CP2000?
An IRS Notice CP2000 is a notification from the IRS indicating a discrepancy between the income reported on your tax return and the information they received from third parties, such as employers or financial institutions.
What should I do if I suspect identity theft and receive a CP2000 notice?
If you believe you are a victim of identity theft, complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, and submit it to the IRS along with your response to the CP2000 notice. Clearly explain that you did not earn the income in question and suspect identity theft.
What documentation should I include with my response?
Include a copy of the CP2000 notice, Form 14039, and any supporting documentation that helps prove you were not involved in the income discrepancy. This may include a police report or other identity theft-related documents.
How long will it take for the IRS to resolve the issue?
The IRS typically takes several months to resolve identity theft cases related to CP2000 notices. Monitor your account and keep copies of all correspondence sent to the IRS.
What if the IRS determines I owe additional taxes even after reporting identity theft?
If the IRS determines you owe additional taxes despite your identity theft claim, you have the right to appeal their decision. Consult with a tax professional or attorney to understand your options.