Contributed by: TriciaD, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro
If you received an IRS Notice CP12, it means the IRS changed one or more items on your tax return. This usually happens when the IRS finds a math error, incorrect credit, missing information, or an amount entered on the wrong line while processing your return. The change often affects your refund or the amount you owe.
A CP12 notice isn’t an audit. It usually means the IRS corrected your return while processing it. You should read the notice carefully, compare it with the return you filed, and respond by the deadline if you disagree.
What does IRS Notice CP12 mean?
You may get Notice CP12 if the IRS changes the amount of a credit you claimed, corrects a math error, or moves an amount to the right line on your return. Your notice should tell you the exact reason for the change and what to do next.
What should I do after receiving a CP12 notice?
- Read the notice. Look for the tax year, the reason for the change, the refund amount, and the deadline.
- Compare it to your return. Check the lines the IRS changed and compare them to the return you filed.
- Decide if you agree. If the IRS is right, you usually do not need to respond.
- Keep the notice. Save it with your tax records.
- Contact the IRS if you disagree. If you think the IRS is wrong, call the number on the notice or respond by the deadline listed on the notice.
If you agree with the IRS change
If you agree with the change, the IRS says you don’t need to respond. If the change gives you a refund, the IRS usually sends it within 4 to 6 weeks. This can take longer if you owe other taxes or debts.
You may want to update your copy of the return, so your records match the IRS change. Don’t send a corrected copy to the IRS unless the notice tells you to.
If you disagree with the IRS change
If you disagree, respond by the deadline on your notice. The IRS CP12 page says to call the number on the notice if you disagree. Some CP12 notices may say you have 60 days from the notice date to contact the IRS.
Before you call the IRS, gather your notice, tax return, W-2s, 1099s, credit forms, worksheets, and any other records that support your return. Be ready to explain what the IRS changed and why you think the IRS is wrong.
Do I need to amend my return?
Not always. If the IRS changed your return and you agree with the change, you usually don’t need to file an amended return just because you received Notice CP12.
You may need to amend your return if you find a different mistake that the IRS notice didn’t fix. This could include missing income, a missing deduction or credit, or incorrect filing information. If you aren’t sure, read the notice instructions, compare the notice with your return, and consider calling the IRS.
How FreeTaxUSA can help
If you filed with FreeTaxUSA, sign in to your account and review the return you filed. Compare your return with the CP12 notice to see whether the IRS change matches your records.
If you need to amend a return, FreeTaxUSA can help you prepare an amended return. If you first filed somewhere else, you’ll need to recreate your original return in FreeTaxUSA before you prepare an amendment (Form 1040-X). In some cases, e-filing may not be available.
FreeTaxUSA Customer Support and Community articles can help you find your return, understand amended returns, and know what to review before making changes. FreeTaxUSA can’t change or respond to the IRS notice for you. If you disagree with the IRS, follow the instructions on your notice.
Bottom line
IRS Notice CP12 usually means the IRS fixed your return and changed your refund. If you agree, you usually do not need to respond. If you disagree, contact the IRS by the deadline on your notice. FreeTaxUSA can help you review your filed return and prepare an amended return if you need one, but you should follow the instructions printed on the IRS notice.