IRS notices / CP503

IRS notice CP503: second balance due reminder

A CP503 is the IRS's second reminder about tax you still owe on one of your accounts, sent because it hasn't heard from you.

For individuals · Based on the IRS's own explanation of this notice

Deadline: To avoid more penalties and interest, pay the whole balance by the due date on your notice.

What this notice means

The IRS has already reminded you about this balance and hasn't received a payment or a reply. This notice lists what you owe, the due date and your payment options.

Paying the entire balance by the due date is how you avoid more penalties and interest. If you can't pay it all, you may qualify for a payment plan.

Why you got it

What to do now

  1. Go over the notice closely. It lists the amount due, the due date and your options for paying.
  2. Pay the full balance by the due date. You can pay online or mail your payment in the envelope provided, along with the bottom part of the notice.
  3. If you can't pay it all, apply for a payment plan online or mail an installment agreement request.
  4. If you disagree, or you've already fixed the problem, call the toll-free number on your notice. That way your account shows what you've done.
  5. If you want to appeal before any collection action, you can request one under the Collection Appeals Program. Follow the instructions on your notice.

If you don't respond

If you don't pay, make payment arrangements or call, the IRS may file a notice of federal tax lien if it hasn't already, and that can affect your ability to get credit. A CP504, which the IRS calls your final reminder, may follow.

Check the IRS's math. The penalty and interest calculator shows what the balance should be, charge by charge. Compare ways to pay. See what each month of waiting adds, and how an IRS plan compares with a card or a loan.

Questions people ask

How much time do I have?

Your notice gives a due date. Paying the whole balance by then is how you avoid more penalties and interest.

Who should I contact with questions?

Call the toll-free number on your notice before your payment due date to reach a customer service representative.

What if I already paid or fixed the problem?

Call the toll-free number on your notice anyway. The IRS wants to make sure your account shows the steps you've taken.

Related notices

This page explains the notice in plain English. Always follow the instructions and deadlines printed on your own notice. IRS: Understanding your CP503 notice

Look up another notice