I received a CP2000 letter for my 2015 return, the IRS states that the amount I entered as paid to my college on the 8863 form was incorrect.

[jennaswanson]

The amount entered for the total paid to the college was entered incorrect, the 1098 i received included totals from 2016 as well. The CP2000 letter says I owe back $407 for the education credit received, this was the total amount of my education credit, I re-did that portion of my taxes with the correct amount and found that I should have gotten a credit of $219 instead of $407 so I feel that I only owe them $188 not $407. My question is do I need to file an amended return and also when I return my CP2000 letter with my written explanation should I include a check for the $188 or wait for a response from the IRS?

[TomD8]

If you disagree with an IRS notice, generally the best response (rather than doing an amended return) is to submit the response form with a signed statement explaining why you disagree, along with any supporting documentation you might have.  Be sure to keep a copy of the correspondence.  Include a phone number at which they can contact you, and make sure your last name & SSN  & the tax year are on each page of your response.  Personally, I wouldn't enclose a check until the IRS formally accepts or rejects your disagreement.