IRS CP2000 Notice 2026: Why You’re Flagged for Underreported Income (And How to Respond Safely)
IRS CP2000 Notice (2026): Why You’re Flagged for “Underreported Income” — and How to Respond Without Triggering an Audit Receiving an IRS CP2000 Notice can feel alarming — especially when it accuses you of “underreported income.” Many taxpayers immediately assume this means a full audit is coming. In reality, a CP2000 notice is not an audit , but how you respond can determine whether it escalates into one. In 2026, CP2000 notices are increasing due to improved IRS data matching, AI-driven income verification, and delayed third-party reporting from previous tax years. This guide explains why you were flagged , what mistakes trigger CP2000 letters, and how to respond safely without increasing audit risk . What Is an IRS CP2000 Notice? A CP2000 notice is sent when the IRS finds a mismatch between: Income reported on your tax return Income reported to the IRS by third parties These third parties typically include employers, banks, brokers, and p...