VALID › Notice Library › CP05 notice

In the IRS’s own words · not reviewed by VALID

CP05 notice explained, in the IRS’s own words

We need more time to verify your income, income tax withholding, tax credits and/or business income. Please allow up to 60 days before reaching out.

Read the full CP05 page on irs.gov ↗

Quoted from www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp05-notice, read October 15, 2026 · fingerprint 822284da0a15 · 1 line left out here (see irs.gov)

What this notice is about

We need more time to verify your income, income tax withholding, tax credits and/or business income. Please allow up to 60 days before reaching out.

If you filed a return

You don't need to take any action. Please do not call us until 60 days after the notice date and only if you haven't received your refund or heard from us by then.

If you didn't file a return

Someone may have used your personal information to file this return. Download and complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit PDF on paper for faster service. Once you have filled out the form, sign it and mail it to the address on the top of your notice.

Why is my return being reviewed?

We select some returns to review so we can determine whether income, expenses, and credits are reported correctly. This doesn't mean you made an error or were dishonest.

Tips for next year

  • Review all of your income and withholding documents for completeness and review your return to make sure you are eligible to claim all income, credits and business income you reported.
  • Consider filing your taxes electronically. Filing online can help you avoid mistakes and find credits and deductions that you may qualify for. In many cases you can file for free.

What to do next

  • Write down the date on the letter today.
  • Look the number up on irs.gov yourself. Don’t trust a link or phone number from anyone else.
  • If it says you owe money or proposes changes to your return, take it to a licensed CPA, EA or tax attorney before that date.

Not advice. Not a filing. Verify with a licensed professional. Rules change by year and facts.

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