Got an IRS or FTB Notice?

Most tax notices are deadline-driven. The first job is not to panic. The first job is to identify what agency sent it, what deadline is listed, what year it covers, and whether the notice is asking for money, missing returns, identity verification, or more information.

What To Check First

• The agency: IRS, California FTB, EDD, CDTFA, or another state agency.
• The notice number or letter code.
• The tax year or period listed.
• The response deadline.
• Whether the notice says proposed balance, final balance, levy, lien, audit, missing return, or information request.
• Whether all required returns for the listed years have actually been filed.

Common Notice Situations

Proposed balance or CP2000-style mismatch

The agency may believe income, credits, withholding, or deductions do not match the records it received. These notices should be reviewed before paying, because the agency may be missing context or documentation.

Unfiled or missing return notice

If returns were not filed, the fix usually starts with transcripts and accurate missing returns. Resolution options often require filing compliance first.

Collection notice, lien, levy, or wage garnishment threat

These are more urgent because enforcement timelines can move quickly. A licensed EA, CPA, or attorney can evaluate available response options and representation needs.

California FTB or state notice

California issues its own notices and collection actions. State tax problems can overlap with IRS problems, but the response path and deadlines may be different.

How Tax Allstars Coordinates The First Step

We collect only basic intake information first: the agency, notice type, deadline, state, years involved, and whether returns have been filed. Do not send SSNs, tax forms, notices, or private financial documents through public comments or ordinary social messages.

After intake, the matter can be routed to a qualified licensed professional when tax advice, filing work, or representation is needed.