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Informational
IRS CP21 Notice
Changes to Your Return Adjusted Your Refund
IRS changed your refund amount
What is CP21? CP21 means the IRS made changes to your tax return that affected your refund amount.
What This Notice Means
CP21 means the IRS made changes to your tax return that affected your refund amount. Unlike CP22 (which reduces refunds), CP21 is more neutral and can result in a refund increase, decrease, or no change if offsets were applied.
Why You Received This Notice
- 1The IRS corrected errors on your return
- 2Changes were made to credits or deductions
- 3Your refund was offset for prior debts
- 4Income or withholding amounts were adjusted
Important Deadline
Review the notice immediately. If you disagree, you have 60 days to respond.
What You Should Do
- Review the explanation of changes
- Verify the amounts against your records
- If you disagree, gather documentation and respond
- Check when to expect your refund (if applicable)
What NOT to Do
- Do NOT ignore the notice
- Do NOT assume it is junk mail
Need Help With This Notice?
Use our free tools to understand your options and connect with professionals who can help.
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Recommended Next Steps
- Keep the notice with your tax records
- Respond within 60 days if you disagree