VALID › Notice Library › CP187 notice
In the IRS’s own words · not reviewed by VALID
CP187 notice explained, in the IRS’s own words
You received this notice because you still have an unpaid balance on your tax account and it requires your immediate attention.
Read the full CP187 page on irs.gov ↗
What this notice is about
You received this notice because you still have an unpaid balance on your tax account and it requires your immediate attention.
What you need to do
- Pay your unpaid balance. Interest and applicable penalties will stop being added as soon as you pay your balance in full. Pay the amount you owe online. It’s fast, secure, and you’ll receive instant confirmation of your payment. Sign in to your account to view the amount you owe.
- Use the free Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to make payments.
- Pay as much as you can now even if you can’t pay the full amount you owe. Set up a payment plan to pay the remaining balance over time. You may qualify for a payment plan by applying online through the Online Payment Agreement Tool. You’ll receive immediate notification if your payment plan is approved.
- Call us at the phone number shown on your notice if you aren’t able to apply for a payment plan online.
What happens if you don’t respond
- If you don’t pay the amount due in full or establish a payment plan, we may file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien (NFTL) that notifies your creditors we have a claim against your property. This is subject to applicable rights for a Collection Due Process. Learn more about federal tax liens.
- Interest continues to accrue on your account and additional penalties may apply.
Will I be charged a penalty if I don’t pay the full amount?
Yes, you will receive a late payment penalty. Visit penalties to learn more.
What are my rights as a taxpayer?
You can learn about your rights and to protect then in the Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer PDF.
Tips for next year
- Filing your taxes online can help avoid mistakes and find credits or deductions. You might be able to file for free. Learn more about filing online.
- Keep accurate records of your income and expenses.
- Make timely payments throughout the year to avoid penalties and interest.
What to do next
- Write down the date on the letter today.
- Look the number up on irs.gov yourself. Don’t trust a link or phone number from anyone else.
- If it says you owe money or proposes changes to your return, take it to a licensed CPA, EA or tax attorney before that date.
Not advice. Not a filing. Verify with a licensed professional. Rules change by year and facts.