Understanding your CP21H notice

What this notice is about

We made changes to your tax return for the tax year on the notice, which also changed the amount owed for the shared responsibility payment (SRP).

The SRP has been discontinued as of 2018. However, this does not relieve you of any legal obligations for due payments in the tax years for which you have received the notice.

What you need to do

Read your notice carefully. It explains the changes to your SRP.

If you agree with our changes:

• If you have a remaining balance due, pay the amount due by the date printed on your notice to avoid accruing additional interest. Pay online to ensure timely receipt of your payment.
  • Make payment arrangements if you can't pay the full amount you owe.
• If we owe you a refund and you haven’t already received it via direct deposit or mail, you can expect to receive it within 2-3 weeks of the date printed on your notice.
  • If you don’t receive your refund within 2-3 weeks, call us at the number printed on your notice.
  • Your refund may include interest. Any interest you receive on tax refunds is considered taxable income during the year you receive it.
• Be sure to correct your copy of your tax return for your records.

If you disagree with the changes we made, contact us at the number provided on your notice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the SRP?

It's the assessed payment for not having minimum essential health coverage for you and, if applicable, your dependents per Internal Revenue Code Section 5000A - Individual shared responsibility payment. Read more about the Individual Shared Responsibility Provision.

The notice says, "We made changes to your 20XX. If, after reviewing the notice, I am still unsure of what was changed and why, how can I get more information?” (updated Nov. 4, 2024)

Call us at the toll-free number listed on your notice.

What do I say when I call the IRS?

Mention that you received a CP21H notice, and you need to review your account. Be sure to have a copy of your notice and your tax return before you call.

What should I do if I disagree with the changes you made? (updated Nov. 4, 2024)

Call us at the toll-free number shown on your notice.

What happens if I can't pay the full amount I owe? (updated Nov. 4, 2024)

You can request a payment plan with us. For more information about payment options, review Tax Topic no. 202-Tax Payment Options.

Am I charged interest on the money I owe?

Yes, interest will accrue if you don't pay the full amount you owe by the date on the payment coupon.

What happens if I don't pay? (updated Nov. 4, 2024)

The law prohibits us from using liens or levies to collect any individual SRP. However, if you owe an SRP, interest will continue to accrue until you pay the total balance due, and we may apply any tax refund due to you to any tax liability you may have. 

What if I need to make another correction to my account?

You'll need to file Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return PDF.

What if I haven't been able to get answers after contacting IRS several times?

Call our Taxpayer Advocate at 877-777-4778 or for TTY/TDD 800-829-4059.

What if I think I'm a victim of identity theft? (updated Nov. 4, 2024)

Call us at the number shown on your notice. See Identity Theft Central for more information.

Tips for next year

Consider filing your taxes electronically. Filing online can help you avoid mistakes and find credits and deductions that you may qualify for. In many cases you can file for free. Learn more about e-file.