VALID › Notice Library › CP215 notice

In the IRS’s own words · not reviewed by VALID

CP215 notice explained, in the IRS’s own words

We sent you this notice because we charged you a civil penalty.

Read the full CP215 page on irs.gov ↗

Quoted from www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp215-notice, read October 15, 2026 · fingerprint ec5dc75ba2c9

What this notice is about

We sent you this notice because we charged you a civil penalty.

What you need to do

  • Read your notice carefully ― it explains your due date, amount due, and payment options.
  • Contact us if you disagree.

You may want to

Pay online or by mail with a check.

Pay your penalty in full to stop future penalties and interest from adding up.

Learn more about how to make a payment plan.

You can get certain notices and letters in your online account.

What happens if I can't pay the full amount I owe now?

See if you may be able to set up a payment plan through our Online Payment Agreement Application or call us at the free number on your notice.

What should I do if I disagree with the notice?

Call us at the toll-free number on your notice. Have your paperwork (such as canceled checks, amended return, etc.) ready when you call.

Am I charged interest on the money I owe?

Not if you pay the full amount you owe by the notice payment due date. However, interest adds up on the unpaid amount after that date.

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.

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