IRS Notice CP16: Changes to your return: refund offset
IRS Notice CP16 is a return adjustment letter from the IRS. The IRS fixed a mistake on your return and used some or all of your refund to pay other taxes you or your spouse owe. This is not a bill.
What this letter usually means
The IRS fixed a mistake on your return and used some or all of your refund to pay other taxes you or your spouse owe. This is not a bill. A change can raise or lower what you owe or your refund. The letter shows both the old and new figures.
Category: The IRS changed your return
What people usually do first
If you disagree, call the number on your notice by the date shown.
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 CP16.
Common questions about CP16
What is IRS notice CP16?
The IRS fixed a mistake on your return and used some or all of your refund to pay other taxes you or your spouse owe. This is not a bill.
How long do I have to respond to a CP16 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 CP16 for more.
Is a CP16 notice a scam?
A real CP16 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 CP16 notice?
The letter, every page, Your copy of the return, Records of any payments you have made, Records for any item the IRS changed.
Scan your letter in the OweRight iPhone app
The OweRight app can tell you what a CP16 letter is and points you to the IRS page for it.
OweRight is not the IRS and does not give tax or legal advice.
Related notices
- IRS Notice CP21I: IRS changed your IRA tax
- IRS Notice CP30A: Estimated tax penalty reduced
- IRS Notice CP45: Overpayment could not go to next year
- IRS Notice CP51C: IRS figured your tax, balance zero
- IRS Notice CP52: IRS corrected your self-employment tax
- IRS Notice CP87B: Someone else also claimed you