IRS code 290: Additional tax assessed
Quick answerThe IRS increased the tax on your account. A $0.00 code 290 often just means the account was reviewed and released.
Transcript code290
MeaningAdditional tax assessed
Action needed?Yes — see steps
What happens next
A notice explaining any increase normally follows within a few weeks.
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What you should do
- Watch for a notice (often CP2000 or CP12)
- Compare the amount to your return
Waiting on your refund? See our estimated IRS refund schedule for 2027 by e-file acceptance week.
Frequently asked questions
What does IRS code 290 mean?
The IRS increased the tax on your account. A $0.00 code 290 often just means the account was reviewed and released.
What should I do?
Watch for a notice (often CP2000 or CP12) Compare the amount to your return
How long does it take?
A notice explaining any increase normally follows within a few weeks.
Sources
- IRS: Understanding your IRS notice or letter
- IRS: Get Transcript
- Taxpayer Advocate Service (independent help inside the IRS)
Written by the editorial team and checked against the official sources above. See our editorial policy.
By the TranscriptCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-11-12.