- What it means
- The IRS reviewed your return and needs documents to verify specific items before releasing your refund.
- Respond within
- 30 days from the date on the notice
- What to send
- Copies of the documents listed in the notice, with the notice stub and a cover letter.
- Write it
- Document cover letter
- When to get help
- If you cannot produce the documents requested, respond anyway and explain; silence leads to a disallowance.
What the letter says
The CP05 review needs proof. The notice lists exactly what: usually W-2s, 1099s, or records supporting a credit or withholding amount.
What to send
Only what is listed. Copies, not originals. The notice stub on top, a one-page cover letter, then the documents in the order listed.
What comes next
The refund if the documents check out; a notice proposing a change if they do not.
What to gather
- The notice with its list of requested items
- Each document listed
- Your return
Write back
The Document cover letter tool builds the response in the order the IRS reads it. Fill it in, review it, print it, and send it with copies of the documents above and the notice stub on top.
Before you send anything
This is general information, not tax advice. Situations differ. Check with your tax advisor before you send anything. Nothing on this page creates a client relationship.