IRS Notice - Banking Information

The text refers to a QR Code but none is shown -- did you white that out, also?  But the bar code at the top right translates to:

"Any idea why the IRS would send this?"

Sending paper checks is frowned on so maybe they are sending out bogus letters so that they use up their paper and postage budgets so that they don't get shorted in next year's budget process.  You know, the old use it or lose it budgeting system.

this is happening everywhere, all the tax groups Im in, people are seeing the same thing.   

There are some scam letters out there. They may have a QR code.   Ive been advising clients to either create an IRS online account and update banking info, or just wait to see if a check eventually arrives. 

Do not scan Any QR codes!

I had a one with no refund due… overpayment that was applied to 2026. Apparently IRS software is susceptible to same unexpected behaviors as Intuit

I've had 1 letter on a client that had a refund coming, BUT wanted a check mailed to her.  Yes, she's near 70.  I think that her still wanting a check BROKE the matrix that is the IRS refund procedure/Notice CP53E trigger parameter, and taxpayers and preparers all over the USA are having to endure this because of her needing to see and feel that little brown envelope and check.

BTW, I've also had at least 4 or 5, that have gotten the letter but did owe taxes.

I thought from some previous discussions that this notice made clear that if no bank information is provided within 30 days, a paper check will be issued.  But no, IRS did not want to tell people that because it might encourage them to do nothing.  It does direct them to the irs.gov\CP53E website, which has an FAQ that includes:

 What if I don’t respond to the CP53E? (Modified May 11, 2026)

If you don’t respond to the notice, we will issue a paper check after 6 weeks. 

I had a client get the same exact letter CP53E. They owed a large amount in taxes and are not getting a refund, I told them to ignore it. This tax year just keeps getting Better!!!