CP231 Notice: How to Update Your Address with the IRS
Summary:
The CP231 Notice is sent by the IRS when your refund or credit payment is returned to them due to an outdated address. This notice requires you to update your contact information with the IRS so they can reissue your payment. Responding promptly to this notice helps avoid delays in receiving your refund or credit payment.
Receiving an IRS notice can be unsettling, especially when it concerns a refund or credit payment. The CP231 Notice is issued when the IRS cannot deliver your payment because your address is incorrect or outdated. This means your refund or credit payment has been returned, and action is required from your side to update your contact information. Taking swift action will ensure that the IRS reissues your payment and that any further issues are avoided. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about the CP231 Notice, including how to respond and the steps you should take to receive your payment without unnecessary delays.
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What is a CP231 notice?
The CP231 Notice is sent by the IRS when they cannot deliver your refund or credit payment due to an issue with your address. This usually happens when you’ve moved without notifying the IRS, or there’s been an error in processing your address information. The notice informs you that the IRS has your payment, but they need your current address to send it to you.
Why you received a CP231 notice
There are several reasons why the IRS may have issued you a CP231 notice:
- You recently moved and forgot to update your address with the IRS.
- The address on your tax return was entered incorrectly.
- A clerical error occurred while processing your refund or credit payment.
- Your payment was returned due to an undeliverable address.
Pro Tip
Set up IRS account alerts online to get real-time notifications on any changes to your tax return or account. This helps you stay updated on adjustments and due dates.
Steps to take when you receive a CP231 notice
When you receive a CP231 notice, it’s crucial to respond promptly to avoid further delays in receiving your refund or credit payment. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Review the notice carefully
The first step is to carefully read the CP231 notice. It will outline the reason your payment was returned and provide instructions on how to update your contact information. Make sure you understand what is required to correct the issue.
2. Update your contact information
There are two ways to update your contact information with the IRS:
- By phone: You can call the toll-free number listed on the notice. Be prepared to provide details such as your Employer Identification Number (EIN), the name and title of the person authorized to update the business information, and the current address where the payment should be sent.
- By mail: Complete the contact information section at the bottom of the notice. Ensure that the authorized individual signs the form and provides their title, along with the current address and contact numbers. Use the provided envelope to mail the completed form to the IRS.
3. Verify the accuracy of your information
Double-check the information you provide to the IRS to ensure it is correct. Incorrect or incomplete details could result in further delays in receiving your payment.
4. Keep a copy of your submission
Always keep a copy of the CP231 notice and any correspondence you send to the IRS for your records. This can be helpful if there are any follow-up issues or delays.
What happens after you respond to the CP231 notice?
After you have updated your contact information with the IRS, they will reissue your refund or credit payment. The reissue process generally takes 3 to 4 weeks. If there are any further complications, the IRS may contact you for additional information.
How to follow up with the IRS
If you haven’t received your payment within 4 weeks after submitting the updated information, it’s a good idea to follow up with the IRS. You can contact them using the toll-free number listed on the CP231 notice. Be ready to provide your updated contact information and details from your notice.
Pro Tip
Always keep your mailing address up to date with the IRS, especially after a move. Use IRS Form 8822 to notify them of any address changes to avoid delays in receiving payments.
What to do if you never received the CP231 notice
In some cases, you may not receive a CP231 notice but still notice a delay in receiving your refund. If this happens, check your IRS account online or contact the IRS directly to determine if your payment was returned due to an address issue. You can then update your information with the IRS to have the payment reissued.
Tips to avoid CP231 notices in the future
Avoiding future CP231 notices is easy if you take proactive steps to keep your information up to date with the IRS:
- Notify the IRS when you move: Whenever you change your address, update your records with the IRS using Form 8822 (Change of Address) to prevent issues with undelivered payments.
- Ensure accurate address information on your tax return: Double-check your tax return before filing to ensure all personal information, including your address, is correct.
- Set up direct deposit: Opting for direct deposit can help avoid issues with mailed checks. Ensure your bank details are accurate when filing your tax return.
Pro Tip
If you expect a refund, choose direct deposit to avoid complications with mailed checks. It’s a faster and more reliable way to receive your IRS payments.
Consequences of ignoring the CP231 notice
Failing to respond to the CP231 notice can lead to several negative outcomes. It is essential to understand these consequences to avoid complications with your tax situation:
- Delayed refunds: Your refund or credit payment will remain unprocessed, leaving you without the funds you expected.
- Accumulated penalties and interest: The IRS may apply additional penalties and interest to your account due to unresolved issues.
- Potential enforcement actions: In extreme cases, if the IRS cannot contact you, they may take enforcement actions such as garnishing wages or placing levies on your accounts.
- Future tax filing issues: Ignoring the notice can lead to complications with future tax filings, resulting in additional scrutiny from the IRS.
Seeking professional help
If you find yourself overwhelmed or unsure about how to handle the CP231 notice, seeking professional help can provide valuable assistance. Here are some options to consider:
- Consult a certified tax professional: A CPA or tax attorney can offer expert advice and help you navigate the complexities of your tax situation, ensuring you respond correctly to the IRS.
- Utilize IRS taxpayer advocate services: If you’re facing challenges in resolving your CP231 notice, the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service can assist you in addressing your concerns and ensure your rights are protected.
- Visit local IRS offices: If you prefer face-to-face assistance, visiting your local IRS office can provide direct support and guidance regarding your notice.
- Check for community resources: Some non-profit organizations and community groups offer free or low-cost tax assistance programs, which can be beneficial if you need help but are concerned about costs.
By taking proactive steps and seeking help when needed, you can effectively manage your tax situation and avoid the complications that come with ignoring the CP231 notice.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the CP231 notice and why did I receive it?
The CP231 notice is issued by the IRS when your refund or credit payment is returned because they were unable to deliver it to the address on file. This could be due to an outdated or incorrect address. The IRS sends this notice to inform you that they are holding your payment and need updated contact information to send it again.
How can I update my address with the IRS to get my payment?
To update your address, you can either call the toll-free number listed on the CP231 notice or complete the contact information section at the bottom of the notice. When calling, be prepared to provide your Employer Identification Number (EIN), if applicable, along with your current address and contact details. If mailing the updated form, use the envelope provided and ensure that the authorized individual signs and provides the necessary details.
How long does it take to receive my payment after I update my address?
Once the IRS receives your updated contact information, it typically takes about 3 to 4 weeks to process your refund or credit payment. If you don’t receive the payment within this time, it’s a good idea to follow up with the IRS using the contact details on the notice.
What should I do if I lost my CP231 notice?
If you lost your CP231 notice, you should contact the IRS directly to update your contact information. They can verify your details over the phone and guide you through the process of getting your payment reissued. You can also check your IRS account online to see if your refund or credit was returned due to an address issue.
Can I update my address online to resolve the CP231 notice?
Unfortunately, the IRS does not allow you to update your address online for a CP231 notice. You must either call the IRS or mail the updated contact information using the form provided with the notice. If you need assistance, you can also visit your local IRS office for help.
Need help understanding other IRS letters and notices? Visit our comprehensive guide to IRS Letters and Notices or search for the document you received in the table below.
| CP01 | The IRS verified your claim of identity theft and will monitor your account. |
| CP01H | The IRS received a tax return with a social security number that belongs to a dead person. |
| CP02H | Money is due on an amended return based on a grant received due to Hurricane Katrina, Rita, or Wilma. |
| CP03C | You received the First-Time Homebuyer Credit for a house you purchased. |
| CP04 | You may be eligible for tax deferment because either you or a spouse served in a combat zone, a qualified contingency operation, or a hazardous duty station during the tax year specified on your notice. |
| CP08 | You may be entitled to additional money due to the Additional Child Tax Credit. |
| CP10 | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed. |
| CP10A | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed. |
| CP11 | You owe money because the IRS amended your return due to a miscalculation. |
| CP11A | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment also changed. |
| CP11M | Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay and Government Retiree Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed. |
| CP12 | You are due a bigger refund because the IRS corrected one or more mistakes on your tax return. |
| CP12A | The IRS made changes to correct the Earned Income Credit (EIC) claimed on your tax return. |
| CP12E or CP12F | The IRS corrected a miscalculation on your return. |
| CP12M | The IRS made changes to the computation of the Making Work Pay and/or Government Retiree Credits on your return. |
| CP12R | The IRS made changes to the computation of the Rebate Recovery Credit on your return. |
| CP13 | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP13A | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP13M | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay credit or the Government Retiree Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP13R | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Recovery Rebate Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP14 | You owe money on unpaid taxes. |
| CP16 | The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. The refund you were due was applied to other tax debts. |
| CP21A | You owe money due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns. |
| CP21B | You are due a refund due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns. The money should arrive within 2 to 3 weeks. |
| CP21C | The IRS made the requested changes to your tax return. You will not receive a refund, and there is no tax due. Your balance is zero. |
| CP21E | As a result of your recent audit, the IRS made changes to your tax return, and you owe money as a result of those changes. |
| CP21I | The IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes. |
| CP22A | The IRS made the changes you requested, and you owe money as a result. |
| CP22E | As a result of your recent audit, the IRS changed your tax return, and you now owe money. |
| CP22I | The IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes. |
| CP23 | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You owe taxes due to these changes. |
| CP24 | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes. |
| CP24E | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes. |
| CP25 | The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You are not due a refund, nor do you owe any money. Your balance is zero. |
| CP31 | You need to update your address because your refund check was returned to the IRS. |
| CP45 | The IRS was unable to apply your overpayment to your estimated tax as you requested. |
| CP49 | The IRS used all or part of your refund to pay a tax debt. |
| CP53 | Your refund check will be sent by mail because the IRS can’t provide your refund through direct deposit. |
| CP57 | The bank declined your payment, so the IRS was unable to draft funds from your bank account. |
| CP71 | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71A | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71C | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP71D | A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest. |
| CP88 | The IRS is holding your refund because you haven't filed one or more tax returns, and it believes you will owe tax. |
| CP90 | The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy in a Collection Due Process hearing. |
| CP91 | The IRS will levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes. |
| CP120 | The IRS needs documentation of your tax-exempt status. |
| CP120A | Your organization’s tax-exempt status has been revoked because it failed to file a Form 990 series return for three consecutive years. |
| CP130 | You may no longer need to pay the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) because your tax return filing requirements changed. |
| CP152 | The IRS received your return. |
| CP153 | The IRS will send your refund by mail because your direct deposit did not go through. |
| CP161 | You have an unpaid balance due to the IRS. |
| CP166 | Your monthly payment to the IRS did not go through due to insufficient funds in your bank account. |
| CP178 | You may no longer owe excise tax because your tax return filing requirements changed. |
| CP231 | You need to update your address because your refund was returned to the IRS. |
| CP259 | You did not file the business tax return identified in the notice. |
| CP259A | You should have filed these forms but did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax, or Form 990-N (e-Postcard). |
| CP259B | The IRS requires you to file these forms but did not – Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation. |
| CP259C | The IRS believes that you are a private foundation, but did not file the required Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation. |
| CP259D | You must file this form, but you did not – Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return. |
| CP259E | You should have filed this form, but you did not – Form 990-N (e-Postcard) or Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax. |
| CP259F | The IRS requires you to file this form but did not – Form 5227, Split-Interest Trust Information Return. |
| CP259G | The IRS requires you to file this form, but you didn’t – Form 1120-POL, U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Political Organizations. |
| CP259H | As a tax-exempt political organization, you must file this form, but you did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax. |
| CP276A | You submitted your tax liability schedule incorrectly. The IRS typically charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty for this but did not this time. |
| CP276B | The IRS did not receive the correct amount of tax deposits. It normally charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty but did not this time. |
| CP297 | The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing. |
| CP297A | The IRS has levied your assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing. |
| CP298 | The IRS notifying you of its intent to levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes. |
| CP501 | You have a balance due on one of your tax accounts. |
| CP503 | You have an unpaid balance on one of your accounts, and the IRS has not heard from you. |
| CP504 | You have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy your state income tax refund to apply it to the amount you owe. |
| CP504B | You have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy certain property or rights to property to apply it to the amount you owe. |
| CP521 | A reminder that you have an installment agreement payment due. |
| CP523 | You have defaulted on your payment agreement. Therefore the IRS is terminating the agreement and will levy your assets. |
| CP601 | Usted tiene un saldo pendiente de pago (dinero que le debe al IRS) en una de sus cuentas contributivas. |
| CP603 | No hemos recibido respuesta de parte de usted y todavía tiene un saldo sin pagar en una de sus cuentas contributivas. |
| CP604 | Usted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará cualquier reembolso de impuestos estatales al que tenga derecho y aplicarlo al pago de su deuda. |
| CP604B | Usted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará ciertas propiedades o derechos de propiedad y lo aplicará al pago de su deuda. |
| CP621 | Este aviso es para notificarle que usted tiene un plan de pagos a plazos vencido. Por favor, envíe el pago inmediatamente. |
| CP623 | Este aviso es para informarle nuestra intención de cancelar su plan de pagos a plazos y confiscar (embargar) sus bienes. Usted incumplió en su acuerdo. |
| CP711 | Nosotros realizamos cambios a su planilla debido a que entendemos que hubo un cálculo erróneo. Como resultado de estos cambios, usted adeuda dinero por sus contribuciones. |
| CP721 | Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos. |
| CP722 | Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos. |
| CP771 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP772 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP773 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP774 | Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses. |
| CP959 | Usted no radicó su planilla de contribución de negocios identificada en este aviso. |
| CP2000 | The income or payment information on file doesn’t match your tax return. The discrepancy may result in an increase or decrease in your tax due. |
| CP3219A | The IRS has received information that is different from what you reported on your tax return. This may result in an increase or decrease in your tax. |
| CP3219N | The IRS didn’t receive your tax return, so it calculated your return based on the information received from employers, financial institutions, and others. If you want to challenge the proposed tax, you have 90 days from the date of this notice. If you are outside the country, you have 150 days. |
| Letter 0012C | The IRS needs additional information to process your tax return. |
| Letter 0484C | The IRS wants a completed |
| Letter 0525 | Updates you on proposed changes after an IRS examination. Any changes are explained and details the refund due or taxes owed. |
| Letter 531 | IRS Notice of Deficiency. The information the IRS received about you was different from what you reported on your return. |
| Letter 0668D(LP 68) | The IRS released their levy. |
| Letter 0549C | Your tax bill was paid. |
| Letter 0681C | The IRS accepted your payment proposal. However, this is not a formal Installment Agreement. |
| Letter 0757C | You did not adhere to the terms of your Installment Agreement. |
| Letter LT 11 | The IRS plans to seize your property or rights to property. |
| Letter 1058 | The IRS has not received your payment. It plans to seize your property or rights to property. |
| Letter 1615 (LT 18) | You must respond to the IRS within 10 days of this notice regarding past due tax returns. |
| Letter 1737 (LT 27) | Complete and sign Form 433F, Collection Information Statement. |
| Letter 1961C | Your application for a Direct Debit Installment Agreement was declined. It explains why and what you need to do to qualify. |
| Letter 1962C | Your application for a |
| Letter 2050 (LT 16) | The IRS is trying to collect unpaid taxes from you from returns that have been filed or from returns that have not been filed. |
| Letter 2257C | The IRS is providing the payoff amount that you requested. |
| Letter 226-J | An IRS letter to large employers notifying them that they may be liable for an Employer Shared Responsibility Payment (ESRP). |
| Letter 2271C | A request for an Installment Agreement has been approved. It explains the fees and how to qualify for a Low Income Fee Reduction. The letter may also request missing information. |
| Letter 2272C | An IRS letter explaining why your request to pay the balance due in installments was declined. |
| Letter 2273C | A confirmation letter of your request to pay the balance due in installments. It contained the amount to pay, fees charged, and where to send payment. Instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction included. |
| Letter 2318C | A response to a request to pay taxes due to payroll deductions. It also explains the fees that are charged. |
| Letter 2357C | The IRS is admitting that it did not send you the balance due notices that it should have. |
| Letter 2603C | The IRS accepted your installment agreement. The IRS will file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien on your personal property. |
| Letter 2604C | The IRS has accepted your request for installment payments. This IRS letter provides the monthly payment, the address where to send it, and the fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction. |
| Letter 2761C | The IRS is requesting your combat zone service dates to ensure that it provides you with the special provisions and protection of the combat zone deferment. Copies of military orders or other documentation to support your time served may be requested. Civilians working in support of the Armed Forces may be required to provide a Letter of Authorization or a letter from their employer. |
| Letter 2789C | An annual reminder notice, as required by law, of the balance due to the IRS. It explains that penalties and interest continue to accrue until the balance is fully paid. |
| Letter 2840C | Confirms your Installment Agreement request and includes the payment amount and due date. This IRS letter explains the fees charged for paying monthly and explains how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify). |
| Letter 3030C | Provides an explanation of the tax, penalty, and interest still due on your account. |
| Letter 3127C | A confirmation of your request to make a change to your Installment Agreement. This IRS letter explains the fees for the change. Changes can be to the payment amount or due date, or it can include additional liabilities. |
| Letter 3174 | A reminder of taxes due after the IRS has sent a Notice of Intent to Levy. |
| Letter 3217C | The IRS has accepted your request to pay the balance in installments. This IRS letter provides your payment amount, the due date, and fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on applying for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify). |
| Letter 3228 (LT 39) | A request to pay the balance due within 10 days using the envelope provided. |
| Letter 3500 | The IRS has received your documents, and it needs additional time to review them. |
| Letter 3572 | Your Federal Income Tax Return has been selected for examination. The IRS auditor requests that you call to schedule an audit appointment. |
| Letter 4883C | The IRS received your federal income tax return but needs more information to verify your identity in order to process your tax return accurately. |
| Letter 4903 (LT 26) | You must file your tax returns immediately. The IRS has previously contacted you, but it did not receive a response. |
| Letter LP 47 | The IRS is trying to locate the person identified in the letter and is requesting that you provide their new address. |
| Letter LP 59 | The IRS has not received a response to the notice of levy it previously sent. |
| Audit Letter 2205 | The IRS manages audits either by mail or through an in-person interview to review your records. The interview may be at an IRS office (office audit) or the taxpayer’s home, place of business, or accountant’s office (field audit). |
| Letter 915 | You recently underwent an audit, and the IRS informs you that you now owe taxes. |
Key takeaways
- The CP231 notice is issued when the IRS cannot deliver your refund or credit payment due to an address issue.
- You need to update your contact information with the IRS to receive your payment.
- Responding quickly can prevent further delays in receiving your refund or credit payment.
- You can update your address by phone or by mailing the completed section from the notice.
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