Receiving an IRS LT20 Notice means the IRS is reminding you that you still owe taxes. While it is not as urgent as CP504 or LT11/Letter 1058, it is a clear signal that the IRS expects payment or communication before more aggressive enforcement actions begin.
👉See more videos on our channel about LITC Education and how CPA Clinics can help.
🚨 What LT20 Means
- LT20 is a reminder letter that your tax balance remains unpaid.
- It encourages you to pay the balance immediately or contact the IRS to discuss payment options.
- If ignored, the IRS may escalate to stronger notices, including intent to levy or seizure of assets.
⚖️ Your Options After Receiving LT20
- Pay the balance in full to stop penalties and interest.
- Set up a payment plan (Installment Agreement) with the IRS.
- Request penalty relief if circumstances prevented timely payment.
- Dispute the balance if you believe the IRS made an error.
⚠️ Common Complications
- Escalation Risk: Ignoring LT20 can lead to CP504 or LT11/Letter 1058, which authorize levies and garnishments.
- Financial Strain: Penalties and interest continue to grow, making balances harder to manage.
- Language Barriers: ESL taxpayers may not fully understand their rights or deadlines.
- Limited Resources: Low‑income taxpayers often cannot afford professional representation.
🛡️ How CPA Clinics (LITC) Helps
The Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) at CPA Clinics provides free or low‑cost representation for qualifying taxpayers. If you receive LT20:
- We review your IRS notice and financial situation.
- We explain your rights and options clearly.
- We assist in negotiating payment plans or requesting penalty relief.
- We represent you before the IRS if disputes escalate.
- We provide education for taxpayers who speak English as a second language (ESL).
📖 Commonly Asked Questions
Q1: Is LT20 a final notice?
👉 No. LT20 is a reminder notice. If ignored, the IRS may escalate to CP504 or LT11/Letter 1058, which are final levy notices.
Q2: What happens if I ignore LT20?
👉 The IRS will continue collection efforts, adding penalties and interest, and may eventually seize wages, bank accounts, or property.
Q3: Can I dispute the balance shown on LT20?
👉 Yes. If you believe the IRS made an error, CPA Clinics can help you file a dispute or request a Collection Due Process hearing if the issue escalates.
Q4: Do I qualify for LITC help?
👉 If your income is within IRS guidelines (≤250% of the federal poverty level) or you speak English as a second language, you may qualify for free representation.
Q5: What if I can’t pay anything right now?
👉 Options include requesting Currently Not Collectible status or applying for an Offer in Compromise. CPA Clinics can guide you through these processes.
Contact Us – We’re Here to Help
If you’ve received IRS LT20 Notice, don’t wait until the IRS escalates collection. Relief and representation may be available.
📞 Phone: (516) 464‑7444
📧 Email: info@cpaclinics.com
🌐 Website: www.cpaclinics.com
📍 Locations: Bronx, Manhattan, Hempstead, Hicksville





