IRS Letter LT39: Reminder about unpaid balance and missing returns
IRS Letter LT39 is a balance due letter from the IRS. This is a written reminder the IRS must send about an overdue balance and any missing tax returns. It belongs to the group of IRS letters about unpaid balances.
What this letter usually means
This is a written reminder the IRS must send about an overdue balance and any missing tax returns. 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 the balance by the due date on the notice, and file any missing returns as soon as possible.
What to have ready
- The LT39 notice
- A list of the tax years you still need to file
- Proof of any payments you already made
- Your income records for the missing years
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 LT39.
Common questions about LT39
What is IRS notice LT39?
This is a written reminder the IRS must send about an overdue balance and any missing tax returns.
How long do I have to respond to a LT39 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 LT39 for more.
Is a LT39 notice a scam?
A real LT39 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 LT39 notice?
The LT39 notice, A list of the tax years you still need to file, Proof of any payments you already made, Your income records for the missing years.
Scan your letter in the OweRight iPhone app
The OweRight app can tell you what a LT39 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 Letter LT19: Collecting an unpaid balance
- IRS Letter LT38: Collection notices are starting again
- IRS Notice CP39: Refund used to pay past due tax
- IRS Notice CP14H: Health coverage payment owed
- IRS Notice CP40: Your tax debt went to a collection agency
- IRS Notice CP51A: IRS figured your tax and you owe