IRS Letter 566: Audit by mail — documents requested
Quick answerAn initial correspondence audit letter: the IRS is examining specific items on your return and asks you to send documents.
Letter / notice566
MeaningAudit by mail — documents requested
Action needed?Yes — see steps
What happens next
Respond by the date on the letter.
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What you should do
- Send copies (not originals) of the records requested
- Include the letter's response page
- Ask for more time if you need it — before the deadline
Scam check: the IRS first contacts you by mail. Use only the phone numbers printed on your letter or on IRS.gov — never ones from a text, email or unofficial site.
Frequently asked questions
What does IRS Letter 566 mean?
An initial correspondence audit letter: the IRS is examining specific items on your return and asks you to send documents.
What should I do?
Send copies (not originals) of the records requested Include the letter's response page Ask for more time if you need it — before the deadline
How long does it take?
Respond by the date on the letter.
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.