Privacy Policy for WhatThisIRSLetterMeans.com

This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, why we collect it, and what choices you have. The short version: we run an educational site, we keep data collection minimal, and we do not sell your personal information. If you have questions, you can reach us on our Contact page.

Last updated: 2026

Who we are

WhatThisIRSLetterMeans.com is an independent educational website that provides plain-English explanations of IRS letters, notices, and related topics. You can learn more about the site on our About page.

Takeaway: We’re here to explain the language in IRS letters, not to collect personal data.

What information we collect

Information you choose to send us

If you contact us, we may receive the information you include in your message (for example: your name, email address, and whatever you type). We use that information only to respond and communicate with you.

Takeaway: If you want help understanding a letter, you can reference the general letter name (example: “CP14” or “LT11”) without sharing private details.

Basic technical information

Like most websites, our servers and security tools may log basic technical details when you visit. This can include your device type, browser type, approximate location (like city/state), pages viewed, the date and time of your visit, and the general source of traffic (for example, a search engine).

Takeaway: This kind of data helps us keep the site stable, prevent abuse, and improve content.

What we do NOT intentionally collect

• We do not request your Social Security number or IRS account transcripts.
• We do not request your bank account numbers or payment card numbers.
• We do not request full copies of your IRS notices with barcodes or account identifiers.
• We do not build personal tax profiles or try to identify you.

Takeaway: If a website asks you to upload sensitive IRS documents “to decode your notice,” be careful. Keep your private data private.

Cookies and similar technologies

Cookies are small files stored on your device that help websites work correctly and (sometimes) measure traffic. We may use cookies or similar tools for basic functions like confirming page performance and understanding which pages people find helpful.

Analytics

We may use analytics to understand general website usage (for example, which IRS letter pages are visited most). Analytics typically collects aggregated information like page views, device type, and general location. It is used to improve the site and content structure (for example, improving our letter index page and internal linking).

If you prefer not to be measured by analytics, you can use browser controls to block cookies, use private browsing, or use an ad/content blocker. Blocking cookies may affect some site functions, but most educational pages should still work.

Takeaway: Cookies help us see what content is useful, but you still have control.

How we use information

We use information we collect for purposes like:

• Operating and maintaining the website
• Responding to messages sent through our Contact page
• Preventing spam, fraud, or abusive traffic
• Improving content and site navigation (like our IRS letters index)

Takeaway: We use data to run and improve the site — not to profile you.

Do we share or sell your information?

We do not sell your personal information. We may share limited information in specific situations, such as:

• Service providers: We may use reputable hosting, security, analytics, or email tools to operate the website. These providers may process limited data on our behalf.
• Legal and safety reasons: If required by law or necessary to protect the site, users, or our rights, we may disclose information to comply with valid legal requests.
• Business changes: If the site is reorganized, merged, or sold, information may transfer as part of that process (but still subject to this Policy unless updated).

Takeaway: We keep sharing limited and purpose-based.

Third-party links

Our pages may reference third-party websites (including official resources) for general information. If you click a third-party link, their privacy practices apply — not ours. We recommend reviewing their policies if you share information on their sites.

Takeaway: Once you leave our site, you’re on someone else’s rules.

Data security

We take reasonable steps to protect this site and the information we receive. However, no website can guarantee perfect security. The best protection is also on your side: do not share sensitive personal information through general contact forms or email.

Takeaway: We do our part, but you should still avoid sending private tax identifiers online.

How long we keep information

We keep personal information only as long as needed for the purpose it was collected. For example, if you contact us, we may keep your message long enough to respond and maintain basic records of communication. Technical logs are typically stored for a limited time for security and performance.

Takeaway: We aim to keep data minimal and time-limited.

Your choices and rights

Depending on where you live, you may have rights to access, delete, or correct certain personal information. You can also limit cookies through browser settings. If you want to make a privacy request, contact us and describe what you need.

Children’s privacy

This website is intended for a general audience and is focused on educational explanations of IRS letters. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided personal information to us, please contact us so we can address it.

Changes to this Privacy Policy

We may update this Policy from time to time to reflect changes in how the site operates. When we update it, we will revise the “Last updated” date at the top of the page.