An IRS letter or unpaid tax bill deserves a clear response. Get help understanding the notice, reviewing payment options, and discussing other relief questions so you can focus on the next useful step.
Identify what is known
If you are unsure whether a return was filed, explain what records you have rather than assuming that a prepared copy proves submission. Past-due filing questions and a balance already shown by the IRS may require different follow-up.
Discuss the information needed
Ask which tax years require attention and what income or other records would be useful. Filing a past-due return can be important even when full payment is not possible. The relevant filing requirements and payment questions should be discussed separately.
Keep the work understandable
A proposal should explain whether it includes return preparation, account review, notice response, or payment assistance. Ask what remains your responsibility and how missing information will be handled. Keep copies of submissions and relevant confirmation.
Practical questions for your discussion
List available return copies and evidence related to submission or acknowledgement. Then make a separate source-document checklist for income and other records needing review. Missing a form does not by itself establish that no return exists. A finished-looking return copy does not automatically settle the submission question.
Identify which records can be retrieved and which need clarification by a preparer. Keep request dates and responses beside the relevant year. This checklist supports a focused prior-year discussion without deciding filing requirements or filling a missing figure from memory. A provider can explain what additional evidence is necessary after reviewing the actual sources.
Read the current official instructions: IRS guidance on past-due returns.