IRS Letter LT16: Unpaid balance or missing returns
IRS Letter LT16 is a balance due letter from the IRS. The IRS is trying to collect unpaid taxes, or has no record of returns it thinks you should have filed, or both. It warns that enforcement can follow. It is about money the IRS shows as unpaid on your account.
What this letter usually means
The IRS is trying to collect unpaid taxes, or has no record of returns it thinks you should have filed, or both. It warns that enforcement can follow. The amount on the letter is what the IRS shows today. Interest and penalties can change it, so the letter and your IRS Online Account are the places to confirm it.
Category: You owe a balance
What people usually do first
File any missing returns and pay what you can now; call the number on your notice if you can't pay in full.
What to have ready
- The letter, every page
- Your most recent tax return for that year
- Records of any payments you have made
- Your IRS Online Account balance, printed or screenshot
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 LT16.
Common questions about LT16
What is IRS notice LT16?
The IRS is trying to collect unpaid taxes, or has no record of returns it thinks you should have filed, or both. It warns that enforcement can follow. It is also called LETTERLT16, LTRLT16, LETTER16.
How long do I have to respond to a LT16 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 LT16 for more.
Is a LT16 notice a scam?
A real LT16 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 LT16 notice?
The letter, every page, Your most recent tax return for that year, Records of any payments you have made, Your IRS Online Account balance, printed or screenshot.
The OweRight app explains the LT16 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 CP90: Intent to levy and right to a hearing
- IRS Notice CP523: Intent to terminate installment agreement
- IRS Letter LT11: Final notice of intent to levy
- IRS Notice CP521: Installment payment reminder
- IRS Notice CP14I: Balance due on IRA taxes
- IRS Notice CP504B: Notice of intent to levy