Letter guides
Plain-English guides to the letters, bills, and notices people find most confusing. Each one explains what the letter means, how to check that it is real, and what to do next.
Taxes
- IRS Letter 5071C: What It Means and How to Verify Your Identity
Got IRS Letter 5071C? The IRS is holding a tax return filed under your SSN until you confirm who you are. Here is how to verify safely and what comes next.
- IRS Notice CP14: What It Means and What to Do
Got an IRS CP14? It says you have unpaid tax. Here is how to check it is real, what the amounts mean, your options to pay, and what happens if you wait.
- IRS Notice CP2000: What It Means and What to Do
Got an IRS CP2000? It proposes changes to your return based on mismatched income. Here is what it says, your deadline, and how to respond.
Insurance and Medicare
- Explanation of Benefits (EOB): How to Read It (It Is Not a Bill)
Got an Explanation of Benefits from your health plan? It is not a bill. Here is how to read each column, check it against your bill, and spot errors.
- Medicare Summary Notice (MSN): How to Read It and What to Do
Got a Medicare Summary Notice? It is not a bill. Learn how to read each page, check for errors or fraud, and appeal a denied claim within 120 days.
Scams
- Is This Letter a Scam? How to Spot Fake Letters and Check Them
Not sure a letter is real? Learn the red flags of fake IRS letters, debt collectors, prize checks, unclaimed property, invoices, and final notice mailers.