How to organize an IRS notice for a preparation discussion

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Filing questions

By Accounting Services · Published September 30, 2026

An IRS notice deserves a focused review. Start with the actual document rather than a recollection of its wording. Keep every page together and note when you received it so the person helping you can see the full context.

Identify the notice and the date

The IRS explains that a notice’s CP or LTR number helps identify its subject. Record that number, the tax year and any response date shown. Read the requested action carefully. Do not assume that booking a consultation pauses the deadline in the notice.

Build a small reference packet

Keep the related return, previous correspondence and relevant payment confirmations together. If you already responded, include a copy of what you sent and any available delivery confirmation. A clear sequence is more useful than several unsorted screenshots.

Distinguish questions from conclusions

Write down what you understand and what you want clarified. A notice may ask for information or describe a change; its contents need to be reviewed before deciding the response. The IRS provides instructions for agreeing, disagreeing and responding when required.

For an initial ASI inquiry, state that you have a notice and an approaching response date if applicable. Obtain secure transfer instructions before sharing the document. Confirm whether reviewing or responding to the notice is within the proposed engagement; it is not automatically included in ordinary return preparation.

Source and further reading

IRS: Understanding a notice or letter. General preparation information; your engagement and filing requirements depend on your circumstances.

What happens next

Tell ASI what you need help with. Start with your contact information and add optional context.