If you’ve been setting aside unopened IRS letters, hoping they’ll stop coming, you’re not alone. Many taxpayers ignore IRS notices out of fear, confusion, or simply not knowing what to do next. Unfortunately, those letters won’t go away — and the longer you wait, the higher the cost.
At DF Chamberlain Tax Debt Services, Donna Farrar Chamberlain, CPA, has seen how quickly a small tax issue can grow into something overwhelming. With nearly 30 years of experience helping Texans resolve IRS problems, she provides practical, compassionate guidance to help you find REAL Tax Resolution™ before things escalate.
Why the IRS Sends Notices
Not every IRS letter means trouble — but every letter means you should pay attention. The IRS sends notices for many reasons, including:
- Informing you of a balance due
- Requesting additional information or clarification
- Adjusting your return
- Warning of potential enforcement actions
Some of the most common notices include:
- CP14: Initial balance due notice
- CP501 / CP503: Reminder letters
- CP504:Final Notice – Intent to Levy
- LT11 / Letter 1058:Notice of Your Right to a Hearing Before Levy
Each new letter represents a more serious stage of the collection process. Ignoring them only limits your options.
What Happens When You Ignore IRS Notices
When IRS letters go unanswered, the agency assumes you’re refusing to cooperate — and that’s when penalties, interest, and enforcement actions begin.
Penalties and Interest Increase
The IRS adds late-filing and late-payment penalties plus daily interest on unpaid balances. A small bill can double within a year if left unaddressed.
Wage Garnishments and Bank Levies
If the IRS doesn’t hear from you, they can legally seize part of your paycheck or withdraw funds from your bank account.
Tax Liens
A federal tax lien can be filed against your property, making it harder to sell or refinance your home or business.
Loss of Refunds
If you’re due a refund but haven’t filed within three years, that money is lost for good.
Ignoring IRS mail doesn’t make it go away — it simply gives the IRS permission to act without your input.
Why People Avoid IRS Mail
It’s easy to understand why people avoid opening IRS letters. Fear, embarrassment, or not knowing where to start can make even simple issues feel impossible. But in nearly every case, the earlier you respond, the easier (and cheaper) it is to resolve.
The IRS is generally more flexible with taxpayers who take initiative. Reaching out before enforcement begins can lead to payment plans, penalty relief, or even settlement options that aren’t available once collections are underway.
What to Do When You Receive an IRS Letter
If you’ve received a notice, here’s how to take control:
1. Read the notice carefully.
Identify the letter number (e.g., CP14, LT11) and the deadline for response.
2. Verify accuracy.
IRS errors happen. Make sure the balance, tax year, and personal information are correct.
3. Don’t ignore the deadline.
Missing it can lead to automatic collection actions.
4. Contact a CPA right away.
A tax professional like Donna Farrar Chamberlain can interpret the notice, confirm your balance, and communicate with the IRS on your behalf.
At DF Chamberlain Tax Debt Services, Donna reviews every IRS letter carefully, identifies what’s really going on, and acts fast to prevent the situation from worsening.
How a CPA Can Help Resolve IRS Notices
When you’re facing IRS notices, a CPA’s experience and authority make all the difference. Donna can:
- Verify whether the IRS’s information is accurate
- Negotiate directly with IRS agents to pause enforcement
- Arrange affordable payment plans or settlements
- Request penalty abatement or other relief options
- Represent you in hearings or appeals if necessary
With a professional managing your case, you’ll stop feeling cornered and start regaining control.
Why Acting Now Matters
Every IRS notice includes a response window — often 30 days or less. Acting before that deadline can mean the difference between a simple resolution and a wage garnishment or lien.
Donna’s goal is to help you resolve the issue quickly, with the least disruption to your finances and peace of mind. The sooner you reach out, the more solutions are available.
Get REAL Tax Resolution™ in Arlington, Texas
If you’ve been avoiding IRS letters, don’t let another one sit unopened. The situation can still be fixed — and often more easily than you think.
At DF Chamberlain Tax Debt Services, Donna Farrar Chamberlain, CPA, helps Texans take control of their tax situations through professional, compassionate IRS representation.
📞 Get REAL Tax Resolution™ today — schedule your confidential consultation with Donna Farrar Chamberlain, CPA, and stop IRS problems before they get worse.
