Receiving an official letter can be confusing or stressful — especially when the language feels formal, urgent, or unclear.
Decode the Letter helps explain what common letters, notices, and official documents usually mean, why they’re sent, and what typically happens next — using calm, plain-language explanations.
This site does not provide advice or instructions.
It exists to reduce confusion and help you understand what you’re looking a
Letters explained on this site commonly come from:
Courts and legal offices
Government and tax agencies
Employers and workplaces
Utility companies
Insurance providers
Debt collectors and financial institutions
Each section below groups letters by type so you can find the one closest to yours.
Court Letters Explained
Summons, notices to appear, judgments, and court documents
Debt & Collection Letters Explained
Payment demands, final notices, and collection letters
Government & Tax Letters Explained
IRS, state, benefits, and compliance notices
Utility & Shutoff Notices Explained
Electric, gas, water, and service disconnect warnings
Employer & Workplace Notices Explained
Termination, discipline, and workplace letters
Child Support and Garnishments
Tax Refund and Paycheck
Explaining confusing language
Clarifying what matters most
Separating fear from facts
Helping you understand common timelines
No pressure. No judgment. Just clarity.
This site provides general information only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, or professional advice. Always rely on official sources for confirmation.
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