Understanding your CP81 notice

What this notice is about

We received payments or other credits for the tax return shown on your notice, but we haven’t received your tax return for that year. The period for claiming a refund or credit for that tax year may expire soon.

What you need to do

• If youneed to file this tax return, file immediately. We’ll use the credit amount shown on the notice to pay any taxes you owe and refund any extra.
• If you’ve already filed this return and it's been over 8 weeks, send us a newly signed copy, including all schedules, forms and other documents you included with your original return.
• If you want the credit moved to another tax form, tax period or tax identification number, call us at the number on your notice.
• If you don’t file your tax return or contact us, you’ll lose your credit. The law sets strict time limits for refunding or transferring credits.

You may want to

Call 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676) to order forms and publications or visit the Forms, instructions & publications page to download them.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to file a tax return to claim a refund? (updated June 5, 2025)

Generally, you must file a tax return within 3 years from the due date of the return (including extensions) to receive a refund of any overpayment on your account. After the refund statute expiration date (RSED) expires, we can’t refund any overpayments.

Where do I send my return?

Send it to the address shown on the notice.

What should I do if I just filed my tax return? (updated June 5, 2025)

You don’t have to do anything if you filed within the last 8 weeks.

Tips for next year

File all required returns by their appropriate due dates.