Understanding your CP503 notice

What this notice is about

You received this notice because we haven’t heard from you and you still have an unpaid balance on one of your tax accounts.


What you need to do

  • Read your notice carefully. It explains how much you owe, when your payment is due, and your payment options.
  • Pay the amount you owe by the due date shown on the notice.
  • Make a payment plan if you can't pay the full amount you owe.
  • Contact us if you disagree by calling the toll-free number shown on your notice.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the notice telling me?

This notice is your second reminder that you still owe a balance on one of your tax accounts. You received this notice because we haven’t received your payment or a response to previous notice(s) requesting you pay this balance.

What do I have to do?

Pay the amount you owe by the due date shown on the notice. You can quickly and easily pay your balance online or mail us your payment in the envelope we sent you. Please include the bottom part of the notice to make sure we correctly credit your account.

If you can't pay the whole amount now, you may qualify for a payment plan (including installment agreements) by applying online through our online payment agreement application. You can also mail us an installment agreement request.

How much time do I have?

You must pay the entire balance by the due date shown on your notice to avoid additional penalties and interest.

What happens if I don't pay or respond to this notice?

If you don't pay the amount due, make payment arrangements, or contact us at the toll-free number on your notice, we may file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien if we haven't already done so. A tax lien is a public notice to your creditors that the IRS has a right to your interests in your current assets and any assets you acquire after we file the lien; it can affect your ability to get credit.

Who should I contact?

If you have any questions about this notice, call us at the toll-free number shown on your notice by your payment due date to speak to a customer service representative.

What if I don't agree or have already taken corrective action?

If you don't agree, contact us immediately to discuss your matter with a customer service representative. We'll do our best to assist you.

If you have already taken corrective actions, you should still call us at the toll-free number shown on your notice to make sure your account accurately reflects the actions you've taken.

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