Understanding Your IRS Notice: CP12
A CP12 notice is sent when the IRS corrects a mistake on your tax return that leads to a change in your refund amount. In many cases, this results in a reduced refund - or the IRS may determine that you no longer qualify for one.
- Indicates the IRS corrected a math or credit-related error
- Your refund may be lowered, delayed, or removed completely
- You typically have 60 days to dispute the correction if you disagree
Why You Received a CP12 Notice
A CP12 notice means the IRS corrected something on your return that affects your refund amount. This can happen for several reasons:
- Math errors on the return that impacted your expected refund
- Incorrect or ineligible credits - such as Child Tax Credit or EITC
- Incorrect filing status that changes your refund eligibility
- Incorrectly calculated withholding or refundable credits
How to Respond to a CP12 Notice
Your next step depends on whether you agree or disagree with the IRS correction. Here's how to proceed:
- Review the CP12 Notice Carefully: Check what the IRS changed and how it affects your refund.
- If You Agree: You don't need to respond. The IRS will automatically adjust your refund or send the corrected amount.
- If You Disagree: Contact the IRS within 60 days to dispute the changes. Provide documentation supporting your original return.
- If Your Refund Was Eliminated: Resolved Tax can help you understand why and whether an appeal is possible.
- Keep All Documents: Save your notice, original return, corrected details, and any communication you send or receive.
When to Contact Resolved Tax for Help
A CP12 notice may seem simple, but sometimes the IRS correction creates new issues. You should contact Resolved Tax if:
- Your refund was significantly reduced or eliminated
- You believe the IRS incorrectly denied a tax credit
- You received multiple CP12 notices or repeated corrections
- You need help disputing the IRS findings within the 60-day window
- You want a tax professional to handle all communication with the IRS
