Define: Ninety-Day Letter

Ninety-Day Letter
Ninety-Day Letter
Quick Summary of Ninety-Day Letter

The IRS sends a notice called a ninety-day letter to taxpayers who owe more taxes than they have paid. Taxpayers have 90 days to either pay the taxes or dispute the notice in tax court. This notice is also referred to as a notice of deficiency, deficiency notice, or tax-deficiency notice. It is crucial to promptly respond to this notice to prevent additional penalties and interest.

Full Definition Of Ninety-Day Letter

The IRS sends a notice of tax deficiency to taxpayers, giving them 90 days to pay the taxes or dispute the deficiency in tax court. This notice is also referred to as a notice of deficiency, deficiency notice, or tax-deficiency notice. Failure to respond within the 90-day period allows the IRS to initiate collection actions, such as wage garnishment or asset seizure. For instance, if a taxpayer receives a letter stating they owe $5,000 in back taxes, they must either pay or challenge the deficiency within 90 days. If they fail to respond, the IRS can take collection actions. Alternatively, if a taxpayer believes the IRS made a calculation error, they can dispute the deficiency in tax court and present evidence to support their claim. These examples demonstrate how a ninety-day letter functions and the choices available to taxpayers who receive one.

Ninety-Day Letter FAQ'S

A Ninety-Day Letter is a notice sent by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to inform a taxpayer that they have 90 days to respond to proposed changes to their tax return.

You may receive a Ninety-Day Letter if the IRS has reviewed your tax return and identified discrepancies or errors that require further explanation or correction.

If you receive a Ninety-Day Letter, it is crucial to carefully review the proposed changes and consult with a tax professional or attorney. You will need to respond within the given 90-day period to avoid further penalties or consequences.

Ignoring a Ninety-Day Letter is not advisable. Failure to respond within the specified timeframe can result in the IRS making the proposed changes to your tax return without your input, potentially leading to additional taxes, penalties, or even legal action.

Yes, you have the right to dispute the proposed changes outlined in a Ninety-Day Letter. You can provide supporting documentation or explanations to contest the IRS’s findings. It is recommended to seek professional assistance to navigate the dispute process effectively.

If you miss the 90-day deadline to respond to a Ninety-Day Letter, the proposed changes will be considered final, and the IRS will proceed with making the adjustments to your tax return. This can result in additional taxes owed, penalties, and potential legal consequences.

In certain circumstances, you may be able to request an extension to respond to a Ninety-Day Letter. However, it is essential to contact the IRS promptly and provide a valid reason for the extension request. Approval is not guaranteed, and it is advisable to consult with a tax professional for guidance.

If you disagree with the outcome of the Ninety-Day Letter dispute, you have the option to appeal the decision. This involves filing a formal appeal with the IRS Office of Appeals and presenting your case. It is recommended to seek legal advice or assistance during the appeals process.

Yes, it is possible to negotiate a settlement with the IRS after receiving a Ninety-Day Letter. This can involve reaching a compromise on the proposed changes or exploring alternative resolution options. Consulting with a tax attorney or professional experienced in negotiations can be beneficial.

To minimize the chances of receiving a Ninety-Day Letter, it is crucial to ensure accurate and complete reporting on your tax returns. Maintaining organized records, seeking professional tax advice, and promptly addressing any IRS notices or inquiries can help prevent potential issues that may lead to a Ninety-Day Letter.

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This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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