VALID › Notice Library › CP503 notice
In the IRS’s own words · not reviewed by VALID
CP503 notice explained, in the IRS’s own words
You received this notice because we haven’t heard from you and you still have an unpaid balance on one of your tax accounts.
Read the full CP503 page on irs.gov ↗
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.
You may want to
- View information pertaining to your tax account.
- Learn more about your payment options and how to make a payment arrangement.
- Request an appeal under the Collection Appeals Program (CAP) before collection action takes place by following the instructions on your notice.
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.
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.
Reference tools
- Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer PDF
- Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request PDF
- Notice 746, Information About Your Notice, Penalty and Interest PDF
- Full list of tax forms and instructions
Need help?
- You can authorize someone to contact the IRS on your behalf.
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If you can’t find what you need online, call the IRS number at the top of your notice or letter.
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.
Run a tax firm?
Notice Desk drafts the CP503 client email, the response letter and the deadline, citing the law, for your licensed staff to review and sign.