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CP71A notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP71A notice? Here is what it means, your deadline, what to check before you answer, and how to reply. Check your own letter free: it stays on your phone.
Check my CP71A notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
We’re reminding you of an outstanding balance on your account. Your account will remain in non-collectable status until your financial situation changes.
What you need to do
- If your financial situation hasn’t changed, you don’t need to do anything at this time.
- Continue filing your taxes timely to let us know if your financial situation changes.
Your deadline
Answer by the date printed on your notice. If there is no date, answer as soon as you can, and call the number on the notice if you need more time.
What to check before you answer
Is this letter really from the IRS?
The IRS writes first by mail. A real letter shows a notice or letter number, your name and part of your tax ID number. The IRS does not ask for payment by gift card, crypto or wire transfer. If in doubt, sign in to your IRS online account, where many notices are listed.
You may want to
- Learn more about your payment options and how to make a payment arrangement. Paying as soon as you can will minimize interest and penalties added to your balance.
- Learn more about how to submit an offer in compromise .
Common questions
Yes, interest accrues on your unpaid balance until you pay it in full.
Yes, you receive a late payment penalty.
You can arrange to make a payment plan with us if you cannot pay the full amount you owe.
Call the toll-free number listed on your notice to discuss payment options. Learn more about payment arrangements here .
Tax professionals who are independent from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may be able to help you. Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) can represent low-income persons before the IRS or in court. LITCs can also help persons who speak English as a second language. Any services provided by an LITC must be for free or a small fee. See if you qualify for help from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic .
Helpful information
- Notify us of a change in your home mailing address by submitting Form 8822 by mail.
- Learn more about the collection process in Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process PDF
- Find information about interest rates on underpayment and overpayment of taxes in Notice 746, Information About Your Notice, Penalty and Interest PDF
- Understand your obligations as a taxpayer in Publication 2105, Why Do I Have to Pay Taxes? PDF
Tips for future filing and payment compliance
- If you don't pay enough tax during the year, you may have to pay a penalty. To avoid penalties and having future refunds offset, consider adjusting your withholding. If you don't pay your tax through withholding, or don't pay enough tax through withholding, you might have to pay estimated tax . For more information, see Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax PDF .
- Consider filing your taxes electronically. Filing online can help you avoid mistakes and find credits and deductions that you may qualify for. In many cases you can file for free. Learn more about e-file .