IRS Notice CP21C: Changes you asked for: balance is zero
IRS Notice CP21C is a return adjustment letter from the IRS. The IRS made the changes you requested to your return. You don't owe anything and aren't due a refund. This is not a bill. It explains a change the IRS made while processing your return.
What this letter usually means
The IRS made the changes you requested to your return. You don't owe anything and aren't due a refund. This is not a bill. Compare the IRS figures with your copy of the return, line by line. The letter explains how to respond if you disagree.
Category: The IRS changed your return
What people usually do first
Read each page and look for a printed date. Then compare what the letter says with your own records.
What to have ready
- The letter, every page
- Your copy of the return
- Records of any payments you have made
- Records for any item the IRS changed
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 CP21C.
Common questions about CP21C
What is IRS notice CP21C?
The IRS made the changes you requested to your return. You don't owe anything and aren't due a refund. This is not a bill.
How long do I have to respond to a CP21C 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 CP21C for more.
Is a CP21C notice a scam?
A real CP21C 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 CP21C notice?
The letter, every page, Your copy of the return, Records of any payments you have made, Records for any item the IRS changed.
The OweRight app explains the CP21C 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 CP23: Estimated payments don't match: you owe
- IRS Notice CP24: Estimated payments don't match: refund changed
- IRS Notice CP25: Estimated payments don't match: balance is zero
- IRS Notice CP10: Changes to your return: next year's payments
- IRS Notice CP16: Changes to your return: refund offset
- IRS Notice CP30: Penalty for underpaying estimated tax