IRS Notice CP21A: Adjusted Return — Refund Due

What does an IRS CP21A notice mean?

A CP21A confirms that the IRS made changes to your account at your request (typically from an amended return or a phone request) and that the changes resulted in a refund. The notice shows the adjusted figures and the refund amount you can expect.

Why did you receive a CP21A?

You asked the IRS to change your return — for instance, by filing a Form 1040-X — and the correction reduced your tax, producing a refund.

How to respond to a CP21A notice

No action is usually required. Confirm the adjusted amounts match what you requested, then watch for your refund, which the IRS will issue unless it is offset by other debts. Keep the notice with your tax records.

What happens if you ignore it?

There is no downside to receiving this notice. If the refund does not arrive or the figures look wrong, contact the IRS, but otherwise no follow-up is needed.

Common resolutions

• No action needed

Related IRS notices

• CP21B — Adjusted Return — Balance Due
• CP22A — Adjustment — Amount Due
• CP12 — Correction Resulted in Overpayment