IRS Notice CP81: File soon or lose your credit
IRS Notice CP81 is a missing return letter from the IRS. The IRS has payments on your account but no return, and the time to claim a refund for that year is about to run out. This is not a bill.
What this letter usually means
The IRS has payments on your account but no return, and the time to claim a refund for that year is about to run out. 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
File the return right away, or call the number on your notice if you want the credit moved to another year.
What to have ready
- The letter, every page
- The tax year the letter names
- Your W-2s, 1099s and income records for that year
- A copy of the return, if you already filed it
- Proof you mailed or e-filed it, if you have it
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 CP81.
Common questions about CP81
What is IRS notice CP81?
The IRS has payments on your account but no return, and the time to claim a refund for that year is about to run out. This is not a bill.
How long do I have to respond to a CP81 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 CP81 for more.
Is a CP81 notice a scam?
A real CP81 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 CP81 notice?
The letter, every page, The tax year the letter names, Your W-2s, 1099s and income records for that year, A copy of the return, if you already filed it, Proof you mailed or e-filed it, if you have it.
The OweRight app explains the CP81 letter type in plain English.
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Related notices
- IRS Notice CP516: Second reminder: no record of your return
- IRS Notice CP518: Final reminder: no record of your return
- IRS Letter LT26: File your overdue returns now
- IRS Notice CP63: Refund held until you file
- IRS Notice CP88: Refund held for an unfiled return
- IRS Notice CP80: Payments received but no return