IRS Letter 12C: More information needed to process your return
IRS Letter 12C is a missing return letter from the IRS. The IRS needs something more, such as a missing form or proof of income or credits, before it can finish processing your return. This is not a bill. Letters in this group say the IRS can't find a return it expected.
What this letter usually means
The IRS needs something more, such as a missing form or proof of income or credits, before it can finish processing your return. This is not a bill. Some people don't need to file every year. The letter explains how to tell the IRS which applies to you.
Category: The IRS has no record of a return
What people usually do first
Send the information the letter asks for within 20 days; don't file an amended return to respond.
What to have ready
- The letter, every page
- The tax year the letter names
- Your W-2s, 1099s and income records
- The items the letter says are missing
What may come next
This letter does not point to a specific follow-up letter. Any later step will be described in mail from the IRS.
Read the IRS page
The IRS letter itself is the final word on what it means for you. Read the IRS page for 12C.
Common questions about 12C
What is IRS notice 12C?
The IRS needs something more, such as a missing form or proof of income or credits, before it can finish processing your return. This is not a bill. It is also called LETTER12C, LTR12C, 0012C.
How long do I have to respond to a 12C notice?
The date to respond or pay by, if there is one, is printed on your letter. Check it, and read the IRS page for 12C for more.
Is a 12C notice a scam?
A real 12C comes by mail and should match your own records. You can also sign in to your IRS Online Account on irs.gov to see your account directly.
What should I have ready for a 12C notice?
The letter, every page, The tax year the letter names, Your W-2s, 1099s and income records, The items the letter says are missing.
The OweRight app explains the 12C letter type in plain English.
Get early access to the appOweRight is not the IRS and does not give tax or legal advice.
Related notices
- IRS Notice CP88: Refund held for an unfiled return
- IRS Notice CP80: Payments received but no return
- IRS Notice CP81: File soon or lose your credit
- IRS Notice CP2566: The IRS figured your tax for you
- IRS Notice CP59: No record of your tax return
- IRS Notice CP515: Reminder: no record of your return