MISSING PAYMENT TO IRS

Q

The IRS is not showing payment that was sent.  What does this mean?

A

It takes 2-3 weeks for the IRS to process a payment.  Notices are computer generated 2-3 weeks before the date on them so many times notices and payments “cross in the mail.”

If there is a POA on file we can pull a current account transcript to verify that is the case.
 

If payment was made online get proof of the payment. If the payment was not made in the primary taxpayer’s account, we will need to call and get it moved to the joint account. 

If a check was mailed and it has been over 2-3 weeks and the payment is not showing on the account check to see if the payment has cleared the bank.  If so, request a copy of the front AND back of the cancelled check.  We will need to order a payment trace. 

If payment was made by mailing a check and the check has not cleared, then it is lost.  Please copy/paste this to the client –

We need you to stop payment on the check and make payment electronically in the primary taxpayer’s name and SS# at https://www.irs.gov/payments and then send us the confirmation.  If there is a bank charge to do so you can file Form 8546 to get reimbursed - Form 8546, Claim for Reimbursement of Bank Charges PDF   Also, we will need the certified mail receipt of the payment you mailed to prove it was mailed timely to get the penalty and interest removed.  We can’t do this till the tax payment is processed.