The IRS Sent You a Letter 11—Now What?

So you just got a Letter 11 from the IRS in the mail—and your heart probably skipped a beat. First things first: take a breath. Yes, this is serious, but you’ve got options.

This letter means the IRS is planning to collect a tax debt by possibly hitting your bank account, paycheck, or other assets. But before they do, they have to give you a chance to respond—and that’s where your rights kick in.

You’ve Got 30 Days—Use Them Wisely

Letter 11 gives you the right to request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing—but you only have 30 days to do it. To get that hearing, you need to fill out and mail Form 12153. That’s your shot to speak up, dispute what you owe, or work out a plan (like a payment agreement or Offer in Compromise).

What if You Miss That 30-Day Window?

Life happens, and if the deadline slips by, you’re not totally out of luck. You still have up to one year to request an “equivalent hearing.” It’s not as strong—you don’t get automatic protection from IRS collections—but it still gives you a voice and a path forward.

Here’s the Catch: The IRS Usually Waits 45 Days

Technically, the IRS can start collection 30 days after the letter. But they often wait about 45 days to make sure your request didn’t sneak in on Day 30 through the mail. Still, don’t push your luck. Mail it early, track it, and keep your receipt.

Doing Nothing? Not an Option

Ignore Letter 11 and the IRS can come for your money—fast. That means wage garnishments, drained bank accounts, or liens on your property. Once that starts, it’s harder (and more expensive) to fix.

Bottom Line: Get Help Sooner, Not Later

Dealing with the IRS doesn’t have to feel like a fight you can’t win. At Philly Tax Team, we help people like you every day—real folks with real issues. If you got a Letter 11, let’s talk. We’ll walk you through your options and handle the paperwork, so you can breathe again.