We want to make you aware of an increase in IRS Notice CP53E mailings—and more importantly, a rise in related scams targeting taxpayers.

What is IRS Notice CP53E?

This notice is issued when the IRS needs updated direct deposit information to process a refund. In some cases, it may be legitimate. However, there are several important cautions to keep in mind.

Scam Activity Is Increasing

Fraudsters are sending highly convincing fake CP53E notices designed to steal banking information. These fraudulent notices may include QR codes, links to “verify” or “release” your refund, or phone numbers requesting sensitive information.

Please do not:

• Scan any QR codes

• Click on links

• Call phone numbers listed on these notices

These tactics are intended to gain access to your financial information.

Taxpayers who previously relied on straightforward annual donations may now benefit from reevaluating the timing, structure, and documentation of their contributions.

How to Safely Handle a CP53E Notice

The IRS does not allow taxpayers to update direct deposit information by phone, text, or email.

The only safe way to verify or update your information is:

Documentation requirements also remain critical. Taxpayers must retain bank records, written acknowledgments, or other supporting documentation from the charitable organization.

For business owners who consistently support charities throughout the year, these changes reinforce the importance of organized recordkeeping.

What Is the New AGI Floor for Itemized Deductions?

Beginning in 2026, only charitable contributions exceeding 0.5% of adjusted gross income will qualify for an itemized deduction. This change may reduce the tax benefit of smaller annual donations.

For example, a taxpayer with $200,000 in AGI would only receive a deduction for charitable contributions above $1,000. A taxpayer with $500,000 in AGI would not receive a deduction on the first $2,500 donated.

This threshold may encourage taxpayers to rethink the timing and structure of their giving.

Potential planning strategies may include:

• Go directly to www.irs.gov (do not use links or QR codes)

• Log in or create an account through ID.me

• Review your account for any required updates

Even if you call a legitimate IRS number, you will ultimately be directed to complete this process online.

Potential Errors in IRS Notices

We are also seeing cases where CP53E notices have been issued in error, including to taxpayers who owed taxes rather than expecting a refund or had no penalties or interest due.

While official guidance is still limited, this issue has been reported by multiple firms and practitioners.

What You Should Do

• Treat any CP53E notice with caution

• Do not provide personal or banking information through unofficial channels

• Access your IRS account directly to verify your status

• Contact our office if you’re unsure how to proceed

We will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. If you receive a notice and have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.