What is the impact of not opening IRS mail?

Ignoring IRS letters is one of the costliest mistakes a taxpayer can make. IRS notices often include:
– Time-sensitive appeal rights (e.g., Collection Due Process hearings),
– Final warnings before enforcement, such as levies or liens,
– Important updates about account status or required actions.
Failing to read and respond to these notices can result in enforced collections, loss of appeal opportunities, or default of agreements. Practitioners must stress the importance of opening every IRS envelope.