IRS Letter LT16: the IRS wants to hear from you
An LT16 is a letter from the IRS collection unit asking you to get in touch about overdue taxes or missing returns. It usually comes after other notices went unanswered, and it warns that enforcement could follow.
What an LT16 means
The LT16 comes from the IRS's Automated Collection System. It says your account has a balance due, missing returns, or both, and asks you to contact the IRS to resolve it. It often lists the tax years involved.
An LT16 isn't a final notice of intent to levy by itself, but it's a sign your case is moving toward enforcement, and the IRS may already have sent or be about to send other notices.
What to do now
- Gather your other IRS letters to see where your account is, especially any LT11, Letter 1058 or CP90 with a 30-day deadline.
- File any missing returns listed in the letter.
- Pay, or set up a resolution, such as a payment plan. See how IRS payment plans work.
- Contact the IRS, or have a professional do it. A tax professional with your authorization can speak for you and often ask for a temporary hold on collection.
What happens if you ignore it
The IRS can file a federal tax lien and, after any required final notice, levy your wages, bank accounts or other property. Missing returns may be prepared for you by the IRS, usually with a higher tax.
Common questions
Do I have to call the IRS?
You need to respond, but you don't have to call yourself. A tax professional can handle the contact, which also saves you the long hold times.
Is an LT16 a scam?
Real LT16s come by mail. To check, sign in to your IRS online account at irs.gov and look at your balance and notices. See our tax scam alerts.
Can the IRS levy me after an LT16?
Before levying most property, the IRS generally must send a final notice with 30 days to request a hearing. If you've already received one, a levy may be close.
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Written by Jonathan Samuel, EA, an Enrolled Agent licensed to represent taxpayers before the IRS. This page is general information, not advice for your specific situation.