IRS 2290 Notice Decoder

The IRS sends out TONS of mail. Sometimes it’s easy to understand, sometimes it’s pretty cryptic. Here we’ll discuss the notices that are common to Form 2290, and hopefully make them a little easier to follow.

General things you should know

First

You should know that almost all IRS notices are created by a computer and sent through the US Mail. They are designed to fit lots of different situations and apply to tons of different kinds of people – so naturally they don’t make a lick of sense. Their correspondence will come in the regular US Mail – the IRS will never use email or social media to request personal or financial information – but if you get something like that be sure to let the IRS know.

Second

Most IRS notices are easy to clear up with a simple phone call – but don’t call the number on the notice. That’s a generic number. If your notice is about a specific tax form then call the specific IRS hotline for that tax.

For Form 2290 that number is:
US Phone Number – 866-699-4096
International Phone Number – 859-669-5733

Always write down the name and badge number of every single IRS operator you speak with. If they give you bad advise, or the wrong answer, having their badge number is your saving grace.

Third

IRS Notices are often sent out in error because no computer is as smart as a real person. I can’t tell you how many notices I have called about, only to be asked by the IRS, “What Notice? – this account is in good standing…” It’s always good to take the time and call to double check, but if the notice doesn’t make sense, that’s a big clue about what to expect.

What we’re going to cover

In this series of articles, I’ll discuss the most common Form 2290 IRS notices I get calls about.

I’ll show you an example of each notice, and explain each section for you in detail. I’ll also talk about how to clear up the issue on the notice.

If you’ve gotten an IRS Form 2290 Notice that isn’t covered here, please fax or email the full notice to us so we can help you decode it, and then add it to our list.

Fax – (909) 596-2042
Email – Support@2290Tax.com

The Disclaimer

I’m not a CPA, enrolled agent, or attorney. That means I can’t, and don’t interpret the law. I’m just a regular person who deals with this stuff a lot. While I have experience, I don’t have lots of fancy education, training or certifications. So in this series of articles (as in all of my articles) I’m just sharing my experience with you. Telling you how I’ve resolved things in the past, or what I’ve been told by the IRS when I call with my own questions. No guarantees that my advice is perfect or that it works every time! It’s just what works for me…