Most IRS problems don’t start with taxes.
They start with silence.
The Biggest Mistake? Ignoring the First IRS Letter
It seems harmless.
A small balance due.
A CP14.
You think, “I’ll deal with it later.”
That little delay is exactly how the IRS wins.
Traditionally — and the IRS is nothing if not traditional — the agency follows its script like it’s the Ten Commandments. You miss one deadline, and the system assumes you’re non-responsive. And once that happens, your case moves deeper into the collections pipeline.
Ignoring IRS notices signals:
- Imminent enforcement
- High urgency
- High-value problem
- Strong intent to seek professional help
Search engines love topics that:
- Answer exact questions
- Give step-by-step solutions
- Use entities like “IRS Collections,” “Installment Agreement,” “Offer in Compromise,” “IRS Notice CP504,” etc.
This post is built around those signals.
What Ignoring That Letter Leads To
- Penalties stack
- Interest compounds
- IRS computers escalate
- Lien filing becomes likely
- Levy authority kicks in
- Bank accounts, wages, and refunds get grabbed
If you think ignoring the IRS is a strategy, it’s not. It’s a retirement plan for your IRS Revenue Officer.
Why People Ignore the IRS (And Why It’s Always Wrong)
- Fear
- Shame
- Confusion
- Overwhelm
- “I’ll fix it later” optimism
Bottom line: your emotions do not matter to the IRS system. Deadlines do.
How to Fix This (The Skeptic’s Version)
Assume the IRS notice is correct until you prove it’s not.
Assume the IRS is behind, not asleep.
Assume they will levy if you let them.
Then:
- Get transcripts
- Diagnose the notices
- Protect the client from enforcement
- Establish compliance
- Negotiate the correct long-term solution
That’s the real formula.
Ignoring the first IRS notice is the biggest mistake taxpayers make. It leads to penalties, interest, liens, and levies. Respond immediately, pull transcripts, and seek professional representation to secure an installment agreement, OIC, penalty relief, or hardship status.
If you’re in Florida or anywhere nationwide, M.A. Rubin CPA, PLLC resolves IRS problems every day. Call 833-MA-RUBIN (627-8246) for a confidential consultation.
Schedule an Appointment Below!
M.A. Rubin CPA, PLLC
Tel: 833-MA-Rubin (627-8246)
Email: Blog@RubinTaxRelief.com
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Consult with a qualified professional for specific advice regarding your business.
