TranscriptCodes

IRS code 301: Tax decreased by examination

Quick answerAn audit or reconsideration reduced the tax on your account (an abatement made by the examination function).
Transcript code301
MeaningTax decreased by examination
Action needed?Usually no

What happens next

If it creates an overpayment, code 846 usually follows after any offsets.
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What you should do

  1. No action needed
  2. Check the reduction matches the audit result
IRS code 301 explained: Tax decreased by examination — what it means and what to do next
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Frequently asked questions

What does IRS code 301 mean?

An audit or reconsideration reduced the tax on your account (an abatement made by the examination function).

What should I do?

No action needed Check the reduction matches the audit result

How long does it take?

If it creates an overpayment, code 846 usually follows after any offsets.

Sources

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.