Understanding Your Letter 5938

What this letter is about

We sent you this letter because we have no record that you filed your Form 1040 income tax return.

What you need to do

File your Form 1040 income tax return immediately or explain to us why you don't need to file.

You may want to

• Review what happens when you don't file a tax return by reviewing the following:
  • Frequently Asked Questions For Past Due Return Filers
  • Collection Procedures for Taxpayers Filing and/or Paying Late
• Review your records and make sure you filed all your prior returns. You can download prior year tax forms and products if needed.
• Check to see that you have enough money withheld from your paycheck to pay your taxes. The Tax Withholding Estimator can help.
• Learn more about your payment options if you owe additional taxes on your return:
  • Payment plans and installment agreements
  • Offer in Compromise

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I've just filed my tax return?

You don't have to do anything if you filed your Form 1040 income tax return.

What should I do if I didn't file my tax return?

For information about filing your return, visit www.irs.gov/filing.

What if I want to file prior year returns electronically?

We accept electronically filed returns for the 2 most recent prior years. However, you must locate an e-file provider who offers the service to do so.

What happens if I can't pay the full amount I owe when I file my return?

You can request a payment plan with us to pay off your balance over time.

Helpful information

Tips for next year

• File your return on time.
• 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.
• You may be able to claim a tax credit if you have dependent children. Publication 972, Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents PDF, has information about this credit.