Say PLEEEEAASE. | How to Talk to the IRS

 The sound of the "IRS" - can make anyone, stand up straight...close their ears/eyes....or run for the Hills.

When it comes to managing our time and money wisely we must be willing to learn, understand and align ourselves with the systems set in place. And that includes communicating with the IRS. Don't be shy, there are real humans behind the operations - so reach out! 

Getting notices, letters and updates from the IRS? Here's how you should talk to them:

• OLD SCHOOL - Written Letter, Dated and Hand -Signed is preferred or Give them a Call on the Phone with your EIN/SSN. 
• DROP THE DEETS - the more Details you provide, the Better; they aren't interested in social media handles they want to see records, official documents and statements. Take Your Time and Gather Information. (See Format Below)
• FORMS - speak their language - each response or request you can think of has an official IRS form. Make it easy on yourself by filling this out. It'll save you time because the IRS is going to ask you for them anyway! Mobile Friendly Forms NOW Available
• BE Direct - there are hired tax professionals that provide free information and tutorials etc. | Get right to the Point so they can help you with what you're looking for; the more you evade the truth the more skeptical they become of your business dealings and financial affair.
• Sign Up for an Online Account and save the stress of a Paper Trail - accidentally missing response Due by - dates. 

So you're Writing a letter to the IRS. It can seem intimidating, but if you follow these tips, you can make sure your request is clear and effective:

1. **Use a Professional Format**: 

   - **Your Address**: Include your name, address, and contact information at the top.

   - **Date**: Write the date you’re sending the letter.

   - **IRS Address**: Use the correct address for the IRS office handling your request. You can usually find this on their official website or in IRS correspondence you’ve received.

2. **Include Your Identification Information**:

   - **Full Name**: Include your full legal name.

   - **Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN)**: Clearly state your SSN or EIN, as appropriate.

   - **Tax Year(s)**: Specify the tax year(s) relevant to your request.

3. **Write a Clear Subject Line**:

   - Start your letter with a clear subject line indicating the purpose of your request. For example: “Request for a Payment Plan” or “Clarification on Tax Return for 2022.”

4. **State Your Request Clearly**:

   - Begin with a brief introduction explaining why you’re writing.

   - Clearly state what you are requesting or what issue you need resolved.

   - Provide any relevant details or documentation that support your request.

5. **Provide Relevant Details**:

   - If you’re responding to a specific IRS notice, include the notice number, date, and any other identifying information.

   - Include any attachments or copies of documents that are pertinent to your request.

6. **Be Concise and Specific**:

   - Be clear and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details that might confuse your request.

   - Use bullet points or numbered lists if you have multiple requests or points.

7. **Include a Call to Action**:

   - Let the IRS know what you would like them to do next. For instance, if you’re requesting a payment plan, specify how you would like to make payments or request a confirmation of receipt.

8. **Be Polite and Professional**:

   - Use a respectful and professional tone throughout the letter. A courteous tone can help in dealing with bureaucratic processes.

9. **Request Confirmation**:

   - Ask for written confirmation of your request or a follow-up on the next steps.

10. **Sign and Date Your Letter**:

    - End the letter with a formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”

    - Sign your name and then print it underneath.

11. **Keep a Copy**:

    - Make a copy of the letter and any attachments for your records before sending it.

12. **Send the Letter**:

    - Consider sending your letter via certified mail or another method that provides confirmation of delivery.

Here’s a sample template to illustrate these points:

---

[Your Name]  

[Your Address]  

[City, State, ZIP Code]  

[Phone Number]  

[Email Address]  

[Date]

Internal Revenue Service  

[IRS Address]  

[City, State, ZIP Code]

**Subject: Request for [Specific Request]**

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to request [clearly state your request here]. My personal details are as follows:

- **Full Name**: [Your Full Name]

- **SSN/EIN**: [Your SSN or EIN]

- **Tax Year(s)**: [Specify Tax Year(s) if applicable]

[Provide any relevant details or background information supporting your request.]

Please find enclosed [mention any documents or evidence you’re including]. I would appreciate it if you could [specific action you want them to take] and provide confirmation of receipt.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature]  

[Your Printed Name]