What to do if you receive a certified letter from the IRS

Many people are afraid to pick up a certified letter from the Post Office and are afraid to open it.  However, you cannot help yourself by failing to act.  Here is some advice on what to do when you receive an IRS or SCDOR letter.   (1) Don’t panic – there is a solution to your tax problem. (2) Don’t ignore it – the problem will only get worse and you will end up with a wage or bank levy. (3) Act in a timely manner – don’t put off retaining a professional or calling the IRS, especially if there is a response date in the letter. (4) Review the information – sometimes the letter only contains useful information. (5) Don’t reply unless instructed to do so by the letter. (6) If you think the IRS is wrong in what they say, respond with your version of the facts. (7) Be aware of scams.  If you think the letter or call is fake, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and report it to the fraud division.