Tax Professional Tip #19 – What to do When a Letter Arrives

Getting a letter from the Minnesota Department of Revenue can be stressful. If your clients receive a letter from us:

• Read the entire letter carefully. Most letters deal with a specific issue and provide instructions on what to do.
• Compare it to the tax return. If a letter indicates a changed or corrected tax return, review our changes and compare them with the original return.
• Reply by the due date. Reply to letters requesting information or action from your clients, or any letters you or your clients do not agree with. Replying by the due date could minimize penalties and interest and preserve appeal rights.
• Pay what you can. Remind your clients to pay as much of their balance as they can to minimize penalties and interest.
• Contact us, if needed. Call the number on the letter and be prepared to offer the letter ID and proper authorization. To get access to your client’s information:
  • Have a valid power of attorney
  • Check the box for third-party designee on your client’s return
  • Have your client present when calling
• Keep the letter. You and your clients should keep copies of our letters for your records.

We will only call you or your client after we send a letter. If you believe the call is fraudulent, get the caller’s name and hang up. Then, call one of our published phone numbers and ask for that person.

Questions? 

Contact us.

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