A Notice of Deficiency is a formal legal determination issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) indicating a discrepancy between the information on a taxpayer’s return and the IRS’s records. This notice, often referred to as a “90-day letter,” proposes changes to the tax return which the taxpayer must address within a specified period, typically 90 days.
Key Components of a Notice of Deficiency
- Identification Information: Includes the taxpayer’s name, address, and social security number or employer identification number.
- Tax Period in Question: Specifies the tax year or years for which the deficiency is determined.
- Amount of Deficiency: Details the additional tax the IRS believes is owed.
- Explanation of Changes: Provides a detailed explanation of the discrepancies and the IRS’s basis for the changes.
- Taxpayer Rights: Outlines the rights of the taxpayer, including the right to challenge the notice in the United States Tax Court.
Understanding the IRS’s Basis for Changes
The IRS may issue a Notice of Deficiency for various reasons, including but not limited to:
- Income discrepancies revealed through third-party reporting.
- Unsubstantiated deductions or credits.
- Mathematical or clerical errors in the tax return.
- Failure to report additional income.
Examples of Notice of Deficiency Situations
Example 1: Unreported Income
John Doe received $5,000 from a freelance job which he failed to report on his tax return. The IRS receives a Form 1099-MISC from the client and issues a Notice of Deficiency to John for the unreported income.
Example 2: Disallowed Deductions
Jane Smith claimed a large charitable deduction without proper documentation. Upon review, the IRS disallows the deduction and issues a Notice of Deficiency reflecting the additional tax owed.
Implications of Receiving a Notice of Deficiency
Receiving a Notice of Deficiency can have significant implications:
- Tax Court: Taxpayers have the option to petition the United States Tax Court to contest the IRS’s determination without first paying the additional tax liability.
- Interest and Penalties: Interest and penalties may accrue on the amount the IRS deems deficient if not addressed.
- Credit Impact: A large unpaid tax liability may potentially impact the taxpayer’s credit rating if it leads to the filing of a tax lien.
Strategies for Responding to a Notice of Deficiency
- Review the Notice Thoroughly: Ensure that you understand the IRS’s position and the reasons for the proposed changes.
- Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documentation to support your tax return filings.
- Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting a tax professional or attorney to assist in preparing a response.
- File a Petition if Necessary: If you disagree with the Notice, you can file a petition in Tax Court within the specified period.
Related Terms
- Tax Audit: Examination of an individual or organization’s tax returns by the IRS.
- Tax Court: A specialized court that hears and adjudicates disputes between taxpayers and the IRS.
- Deficiency: The amount by which a taxpayer’s tax liability exceeds the amount of tax reported on their return.
- Tax Lien: A legal claim by the government against a taxpayer’s property for unpaid taxes.
- Tax Penalty: An additional charge imposed by the IRS for non-compliance with tax regulations.
FAQs
What should I do if I receive a Notice of Deficiency?
Can I ignore a Notice of Deficiency?
How long do I have to respond to a Notice of Deficiency?
References
- IRS Publication 556, Examination of Returns, Appeal Rights, and Claims for Refund
- IRS Notice 1211, Your Rights as a Taxpayer
- United States Tax Court Rules of Practice and Procedure
Summary
A Notice of Deficiency from the IRS signifies that they have identified discrepancies in your tax return. Understanding the basis for these discrepancies, knowing your rights, and timely addressing the notice are crucial steps in managing your tax compliance effectively. Whether through providing additional documentation or seeking a legal remedy, proper handling of a Notice of Deficiency can mitigate further complications and potential liabilities.
