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Notice code 257 (Default) — We didn’t allow the amount claimed as mortgage interest credit on page 2 of your tax return because …
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257
Read the notice carefully and note any deadline. Gather returns, notices, and payment records. Book a free strategy session before responding if the amount is large, unclear, or collection language appears.
What the IRS language says
We didn’t allow the amount claimed as mortgage interest credit on page 2 of your tax return because mortgage interest paid shown on Form 1098 must be reported on line 10 of Schedule A, Itemized Deductions. Note: If you have other itemized deductions in addition to mortgage interest, or your mortgage interest is more than the standard deduction, you may file Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, and include them on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions, to reduce your tax.
What it usually means
257 is in our IR Manual catalog. Official wording is dense — we translate it for business owners and individuals and map realistic next steps.
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