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CP94 notice: what it means and what to do
Got an IRS CP94 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 CP94 notice freeWhat the IRS says this notice is about
A court ordered you to pay criminal restitution.
What you need to do
- Read your notice carefully.
- Pay the amount you owe by the due date on the notice.
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
You may be able to remove the penalties
If you had no penalties in the 3 tax years before, filed all required returns, and paid or arranged to pay the tax, the IRS First-Time Abatement policy can remove failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties. You can ask in writing or by phone.
Cannot pay it all now? Ask for a payment plan
You can apply for a payment plan on irs.gov. Interest keeps running until the balance is paid, so pay what you can now.
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.
Common questions
Why is interest being charged to the restitution? (updated Sept. 30, 2025)
Interest is charged only if it was ordered by the court.
Who should I contact? (updated Sept. 30, 2025)
Call the number on your notice.
Helpful information
- Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process PDF
- Notice 746, Information About Your Notice, Penalty and Interest PDF