If you owe money to the IRS, or if the IRS suspects that you do, you may receive Form 9297, a Summary of Contact letter. This form is used to inform you of various pieces of information that you must provide to the IRS in order to assist them in the investigation of your tax problem. Reading this form carefully and responding in the proper manner is crucial to the ultimate outcome of your matter. An experienced attorney can help guide you through this process.

Information Contained in a Summary of Taxpayer Contact Letter

The form will confirm your identity and tax problem and provide you with some key information. You can expect to see the following:

1. Your name and identification number.
2. The name of your power of attorney if you have someone representing you.
3. Confirmation that the IRS agent discussed with you your rights as a taxpayer and the IRS collection process. Accompanying publications should have been provided to you.
4. A list of the specific information and documents required by the IRS.
5. The time periods that are applicable to such documents or information requests. For example, if the IRS wants to see your bank statements, it must state the specific months and years for which this information is requested.
6. The date by which you must provide the information or documentation requested.
7. Notification of the specific consequences that you may face if you fail to meet the deadlines outlined in the Summary of Contact.
8. The name of the Revenue Officer completing the form and his or her employee identification number.
9. The date the form was completed.
10. The office address, telephone, and fax number where the Revenue Officer can be reached.

Receiving this form or any other type of contact from the IRS regarding a potential tax debt is cause for concern. Fortunately, you have the right to arm yourself with the assistance of an experienced attorney. We encourage you to check out our free guide, The Ultimate Guide for IRS Problems to get started on this process.