Unexpected IRS Debt Collection letter for year 2012

[Thrifty05]

Hi,

I just noticed a letter in the mail regarding a private collector that says I need to pay money to the IRS from year 2012. It doesn't look like a scam, since they are asking me to go to the IRS's website to pay. However, there is no explanation for WHY I owe this money, and the IRS hasn't tried to contact me over the past 8 years. I file every year and have always updated my address with each filing. My 2012 taxes were filed using Turbo Tax, and after going over my records, I can't see any mistakes. Does the IRS have people that can give me detailed information about this? When I go online, it won't allow me to go that far back.

Thank you,

Nathan

[Anonymous_]

Please use extreme caution and discretion in this matter.

Further, read (carefully) through the information at the link below.

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/private-debt-collection

[DoninGA]

Your best option is to contact the IRS and speak with an IRS agent.  Do not pay anything based on the letter you received until you get confirmation from the IRS that this is a valid debt.

Call the IRS: 1-800-829-1040 hours 7 AM - 7 PM local time Monday-Friday
When calling the IRS do NOT choose the first option re: "Refund", or it will send you to an automated phone line.
So after first choosing your language, then do NOT choose Option 1 (refund info). Choose option 2 for "personal income tax" instead.
Then press 1 for "form, tax history, or payment".
Then press 3 "for all other questions."
Then press 2 "for all other questions."
- When it asks you to enter your SSN or EIN to access your account information, don’t enter anything.
- After it asks twice, you will get another menu.
Then press 2 for personal or individual tax questions.
It should then transfer you to an agent.
Or you can contact your local IRS office. See this IRS website for local IRS offices - http://www.irs.gov/uac/Contact-Your-Local-IRS-Office-1 or call 1-844-545-5640 to set up an appointment
Or you may want to contact a Taxpayer Advocate in your area. See this IRS website for Taxpayer Advocate in your area and a toll free number - http://www.irs.gov/Advocate/Local-Taxpayer-Advocate

[Thrifty05]

Thank you!