How to Handle Tax Notices from State or Federal Agencies

How to Handle Tax Notices from State or Federal Agencies

Employers sometimes receive notices from state or federal tax agencies about payroll taxes — rate changes, filing questions, payment discrepancies, and similar items. Forward notices promptly so the tax team can respond within agency deadlines.

What to Do When You Receive a Tax Notice

  1. Do not discard or ignore the notice.
  2. Forward a scan or PDF of the full document (all pages) to help@bernieportal.com or your account manager as soon as possible.
  3. Call out any response deadline listed on the notice when you send it.

What Happens Next

  • The tax team reviews the notice and determines whether action is required
  • They coordinate with the agency when applicable
  • They follow up if you need to provide more information or sign documentation
  • They confirm when the matter is resolved

Common Notice Types

  • Rate changes — for example SUI or other tax rate updates that must be reflected in payroll setup
  • Filing acknowledgments
  • Discrepancy notices
  • Balance due notices
  • Registration or ID updates

State Tax Rate Updates

States often mail rate changes. Forward those notices quickly so rates can be updated in your payroll setup before the next run.


Disclaimer: BerniePortal provides payroll processing services and general information related to payroll administration. This article is for general reference only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Tax laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For guidance specific to your business or an individual employee's situation, consult a CPA, tax advisor, or attorney.

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