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

CP63 notice explained, in the IRS’s own words

We're holding your refund because our records show you still haven’t filed one or more tax returns, and we believe you’ll owe additional tax.

Read the full CP63 page on irs.gov ↗

Quoted from www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp63-notice, read October 15, 2026 · fingerprint d30d571b252b · 1 line left out here (see irs.gov)

What this notice is about

We're holding your refund because our records show you still haven’t filed one or more tax returns, and we believe you’ll owe additional tax.

What you need to do

File your tax return immediately or explain to us:

  • why you're filing late
  • why you don't have to file, or
  • that you've already filed

You may want to

  • Review Collection process: Filing or paying late for what happens when you don't file a return
  • Review your records and make sure you filed all your prior returns. Download copies of prior year tax returns and products.
  • Learn more about your payment options if you owe additional taxes on your return.
  • Learn more about payment plans and installment agreements.
  • Learn more about offers in compromise.
  • Check to see that you have enough money withheld from your paycheck to pay your taxes. The Tax Withholding Estimator can help.

What should I do if I disagree with the notice, I didn't file my tax return, or it's been more than eight weeks since I filed it?

Call us at the toll-free number on your notice. Please have your paperwork ready when you call. If you prefer, you can write to usat the address on your notice.

What should I do if I've just filed my tax return?

You don't have to do anything if you filed your tax return(s) within the last eight weeks.

What happens if I can't pay the full amount I owe when I file my return?

You may qualify for a payment plan if you can't pay the full amount you owe. You can apply for a payment plan online to pay off your balance over time.

If we determine you owe tax on any return(s) you file, we may use all or part of your refund to help pay it.

When will my refund be released?

We’ll continue to hold your refund until we hear from you. We can release your refund when we have received all past due returns, or an explanation showing you did not have to file for those years.

Tips for next year

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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