Disputing a CP22A notice - how do I pause interest and penalties?
I filed an amended tax return for 2024, and just received a CP22A notice and LTR 4364C stating that I owe an additional $3,040. I believe this to be likely inaccurate, but would certainly pay if it was accurate (and broken down to me why). I both called and visited a local branch in person, but was essentially told to mail my response to the IRS office, and it may take 60 days for them to get back to me.
I sent my response via certified mail yesterday. How can I stop interest and penalties from accruing on the amount I owe? I tried calling in to get them to put a hold on it, but after 3 hrs on hold the person I spoke with said they couldn't help me and would transfer me to someone who could - then after another 2 hours on hold I got disconnected. Now I can't get through to anyone.
Should I:
A ) Keep trying to call?
B ) Hope that my letter (where I did request a 60 day hold, but who knows how long it will take for someone to actually read my letter) will suffice?
C ) Just pay the money now and hope for a refund if the IRS finds in my favor?
It wouldn't cripple me financially to pay the money now and hope for a refund - if that is the most straightforward thing to do, then I don't mind doing it because I am going crazy trying to call in over and over again.