Crazy Letters

[Snaggletooth]

IRS is sending out crazy letters that don't make sense. It's not just me - other preparers are noticing the same thing.

I've got a couple where IRS is proposing to change MFJ to MFS. The IRS will not allow this after the return has been filed. What makes IRS think they can do this? Unless the MFJ was incorrect to begin with.

[Rapid Robert]

I would like more details about the letter -- what it says exactly, and what the name of the letter is (e.g. "LTR 12C" or something like that).

You state "other preparers are noticing the same", and that you have "a couple" (of letters). This is the first I've heard of it. Without supporting details/evidence, this is just "some weird thing I read on the internet".

[TaxGuyBill]

I've got a couple where IRS is proposing to change MFJ to MFS.

If a MFS return was also filed (either by one of the spouses or fraudulently), it makes sense the IRS would propose changing from MFJ to MFS.

Have you checked both spouse's transcripts to see if there is any indication of that?

[Snaggletooth]

You state "other preparers are noticing the same", and that you have "a couple" (of letters). This is the first I've heard of it. Without supporting details/evidence, this is just "some weird thing I read on the internet".

RR here are statements from other preparers on another forum:

"So many letters, so early about the least little thing! Clients are furious and afraid."
"Who is writing all these letters from the IRS?"
"It's the computers sending all the letters. No people involved - especially with the more stupid letters."
"I just had a client receive a letter saying that they cannot apply their overpayment to the next year estimates. No reason;"
"I just got a letter today CP14, asking for money that I paid on April 23 with an EFT that cleared the bank. Plus penalty and interest. How do we reason with such craziness. No phone number on this letter."

[New York Enrolled Agent]

RR here are statements from other preparers on another forum:

Unfortunately, I don't think these comments indicate anything other than normal complaining.

You really didn't answer RR's more important question about a letter sent to your taxpayer(s) with a more significant issue I've got a couple where IRS is proposing to change MFJ to MFS. I think that those letter(s) need more clarification from you.

[Snaggletooth]

[QUOTE=New York Enrolled Agent;n312366]

[COLOR=#3300ff]You really didn't answer RR's more important question about a letter sent to your taxpayer(s) with a more significant issue/[QUOTE]

You are correct, I didn't answer because there was no apparent reason to relay to these readers why the letters were written. One letter was for a couple that was recently married in 2023 and this could indicate a remote possibility of marital status inconsistency. Another letter was for a client I have had since 2013 who has been married ever since.

As far as what may be normal complaints, I know you have been in practice for a long time, and you will notice abnormal letters, or hopefully you may not.

Thank you for your response.