Understanding your CP516 notice

What this notice is about

We sent you a previous notice; however, we still don’t have any record that you filed your prior year tax returns.


What you need to do

Respond to the notice by:

  • Filing your tax return immediately with the completed Form 15103, Form 1040 Return Delinquency PDF to explain:
    • Why you are filing late; or
    • That you've already filed.
  • We accept returns electronically for the 2 most recent prior years. However, you must locate an e-file provider who offers the service to do so.
  • Completing Form 15103, Form 1040 Return Delinquency PDFto explain:
    • Why you don't have to file.
  • Return the completed Form 15103 and tax return, if applicable to the address on your notice. You can fax it to the number in the notice using either a fax machine or online fax service. Protect yourself when sending digital data by understanding the fax service’s privacy and security policies. If you’re only sending a completed Form 15103 to explain why you don’t have to file, you can submit it online. An IRS Online Account (OLA) is required.

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Frequently asked questions

Call us at the toll-free number on your notice. Please have your notice and account information available when you call.

You do not have to do anything if you filed your tax return within the last 8 weeks.

Complete Form 15103. Make sure the name, Social Security number (SSN) and year on your return match. Send us a signed and dated copy of the tax return with Form 15103.

File your return anyway. You can request a payment plan to pay your balance over time.

Tips for next year

  • File your return on time.
  • Consider filing your taxes electronically. Filing online can help avoid mistakes and find credits and deductions that you may qualify for. In many cases you can file for free.

Helpful information

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