Free IRS penalty letter templates

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Read a template, copy it or download the PDF, fill in the blanks and send it yourself. Each one tells you what to attach and where to mail it.

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First-Time Abate

Ask the IRS to remove a failure-to-file, failure-to-pay or failure-to-deposit penalty under its first-time relief policy.

The points to cover when you call the IRS to ask for First-Time Abate, and what to write down.

A general letter for events beyond your control that the other templates do not cover.

A serious illness or hospital stay — yours, or that of a close family member you cared for.

The death of a spouse, child, parent or other close family member.

A hurricane, flood, wildfire, earthquake or other disaster.

You followed a tax professional's advice on a technical question, and the advice was wrong.

You could not get records you needed from an employer, bank or other third party.

Wording for line 8 of Form 843, for First-Time Abate or reasonable cause.

Check your IRS online account first: automatic relief may already have removed the penalty.
Pick the template that fits your situation and replace every [bracketed] blank with your own facts.
Attach copies of your notice and documents, keep a copy, and mail it to the address on your notice.

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Last reviewed: November 10, 2026. Check irs.gov for changes.