IRS Notice LT39: Reminder — overdue balance or returns
Quick answerA reminder, required by law, about your overdue balance and any missing returns.
Letter / noticeLT39
MeaningReminder — overdue balance or returns
Action needed?Yes — see steps
What happens next
If you're already working with the IRS, no action is needed.
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What you should do
- Pay or set up a payment plan
- File any missing returns
Official explanation: IRS page for LT39
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 Notice LT39 mean?
A reminder, required by law, about your overdue balance and any missing returns.
What should I do?
Pay or set up a payment plan File any missing returns
How long does it take?
If you're already working with the IRS, no action is needed.
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.