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IRS Notice CP53: Refund coming by check

IRS Notice CP53 is a refund letter from the IRS. The IRS couldn't direct deposit your refund, so it's sending a check by mail. It is about the status or amount of a refund. Check the details against your own records and the letter itself.

What this letter usually means

The IRS couldn't direct deposit your refund, so it's sending a check by mail. The letter explains what happened to the money and why. Compare it with the refund amount on your return.

Category: About your refund

What people usually do first

Start by reading the whole letter, front and back. Note any date printed on it and check the figures against your records.

What to have ready

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 CP53.

Common questions about CP53

What is IRS notice CP53?

The IRS couldn't direct deposit your refund, so it's sending a check by mail.

How long do I have to respond to a CP53 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 CP53 for more.

Is a CP53 notice a scam?

A real CP53 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 CP53 notice?

The letter, every page, Your copy of the return, Your current mailing address, Your bank account details, if a refund is being sent.

The OweRight app can tell you what a CP53 letter is and points you to the IRS page for it.

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OweRight is not the IRS and does not give tax or legal advice.

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