IRS Notice CP260: IRS removed a payment and you owe more
IRS Notice CP260 is a balance due letter from the IRS. The IRS took back a payment it had put on the wrong return. The notice shows what you now owe for that period. It belongs to the group of IRS letters about unpaid balances.
What this letter usually means
The IRS took back a payment it had put on the wrong return. The notice shows what you now owe for that period. 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
Pay by the date on the payment coupon, or call the number on the notice if you disagree.
What to have ready
- The CP260 notice
- A copy of your tax return
- Proof of payment, such as canceled checks
- An amended return if you filed one
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 CP260.
Common questions about CP260
What is IRS notice CP260?
The IRS took back a payment it had put on the wrong return. The notice shows what you now owe for that period.
How long do I have to respond to a CP260 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 CP260 for more.
Is a CP260 notice a scam?
A real CP260 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 CP260 notice?
The CP260 notice, A copy of your tax return, Proof of payment, such as canceled checks, An amended return if you filed one.
Scan your letter in the OweRight iPhone app
The OweRight app can tell you what a CP260 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 CP501: Reminder of balance due
- IRS Notice CP503: Second reminder of balance due
- IRS Notice CP504: Notice of intent to levy
- IRS Notice CP71: Reminder of unpaid balance
- IRS Notice CP90: Intent to levy and right to a hearing
- IRS Notice CP523: Intent to terminate installment agreement