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IRS Letter LT17: You owe taxes

IRS Letter LT17 is a balance due letter from the IRS. The IRS says you have an unpaid tax balance and lists ways to pay, hardship options, and your appeal rights. It warns of liens or levies if nothing happens.

What this letter usually means

The IRS says you have an unpaid tax balance and lists ways to pay, hardship options, and your appeal rights. It warns of liens or levies if nothing happens. Compare the amount with your own payment records. If it looks wrong, the letter explains how to tell the IRS.

Category: You owe a balance

What people usually do first

Pay as much as you can now, or ask about paying over time online or by calling the number on your notice.

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 LT17.

Common questions about LT17

What is IRS notice LT17?

The IRS says you have an unpaid tax balance and lists ways to pay, hardship options, and your appeal rights. It warns of liens or levies if nothing happens. It is also called LETTERLT17, LTRLT17, LETTER17.

How long do I have to respond to a LT17 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 LT17 for more.

Is a LT17 notice a scam?

A real LT17 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 LT17 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 LT17 letter type in plain English.

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

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