NOTICE CP54

Notice CP54 is a letter from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that informs you that your tax return is being held because of a mismatch between the Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) on your return and the information on file with the IRS. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as:

• You recently married and changed your name, but did not update your records with the SSA or IRS.
• You legally changed your name, but did not update your records with the SSA or IRS.
• You entered your SSN or ITIN incorrectly on your tax return.
• The IRS has incorrect information for you on file.

Here are some of the most common reasons why you might receive Notice CP54:

• You recently got married and changed your name. When you get married and change your name, you need to update your records with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the IRS. If you don’t do this, your tax return will be held because the IRS will have a different name on file for you.
• You legally changed your name. If you legally changed your name, you also need to update your records with the SSA and the IRS. If you don’t do this, your tax return will be held.
• You entered your SSN or ITIN incorrectly on your tax return. If you entered your SSN or ITIN incorrectly on your tax return, the IRS will not be able to match it to the information on file. This will result in your tax return being held.
• The IRS has incorrect information for you on file. Sometimes, the IRS may have incorrect information for you on file. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as a clerical error or because you failed to update your records with the SSA or IRS. If the IRS has incorrect information for you on file, your tax return will be held.

What should I do if I receive Notice CP54?

If you receive Notice CP54, you need to respond to the IRS as soon as possible. You can respond by mail, phone, or fax. When you respond, you need to provide the IRS with the following information:

• Your correct SSN or ITIN
• Your correct name
• Your current address
• Your phone number
• A copy of your Social Security card or ITIN notice
• Any other documentation that supports your claim

You can also use the IRS’s Secure Online Services to respond to Notice CP54.

• The best way to avoid receiving Notice CP54 is to make sure that your Social Security number or ITIN and your name are correct on your tax return. You should also make sure that your records with the SSA and IRS are up to date. If you have recently married, changed your name, or moved, be sure to update your records with both agencies.