How long do I have to respond to an IRS notice?

Read the date on your notice first

The deadline depends on which notice you got. The date is printed on the notice itself, and that date is the one that counts. Here is what to look for.

Where to find your date

Look at the top of the notice for the notice number, such as CP2000 or CP14.
Look for a response-by or pay-by date, usually in the body or in a box near your balance.
Check the date the notice was issued. Some deadlines count from that date.

Common cases

CP2000: the IRS says to respond usually within 30 days of the date on the notice.
Balance notices (CP14, CP503, CP504): pay or respond by the due date on the notice to limit interest and penalties.
Statutory Notice of Deficiency: this notice states the last date you can ask the Tax Court to review the case. That date is firm, so keep the envelope as well.

If you need more time

Call the toll-free number on the notice before the date passes and ask. The IRS says this is the right step on a CP2000. Write down the date, the name or ID of the person, and what they agreed to.

If the date has already passed

Reply as soon as you can anyway. A late reply is usually better than none, and the IRS may still take your explanation into account. If the notice mentions Tax Court or levy, see when to get professional help.

Want help writing your reply?
Upload your notice to MyIRSReply. It explains the notice and drafts your response letter. The draft is free; you pay only to copy it. MyIRSReply is independent and is not the IRS.
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Sources

This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice. Your notice is the final word on your dates and amounts. If you are unsure, see when to get professional help.