IRS CP71 Notice Explained | Icantpaymytaxes.com

What this notice may mean

An annual reminder that the IRS still shows an unpaid balance on the account. The notice should be reviewed for the tax year, amount, deadline, appeal rights, and payment instructions.

What to do next

Compare the notice against your records, confirm whether returns are filed, gather payment history, and consider contacting the IRS, a state agency, or a qualified tax professional before deadlines pass.

Annual balance reminder

A CP71 notice usually means the IRS still shows an unpaid balance. It can arrive long after the original bill, so the first task is to confirm what changed.

Check the tax year, balance, penalties, interest, and notice date.

Compare the notice with account transcripts and payment records.

If the balance is correct and unaffordable, review payment, hardship, or professional help before the account escalates.

Use CP71 to recheck the account

Confirm whether the CP71 is only a reminder or whether other collection notices have also arrived.

Compare the balance with account transcripts, payment history, and prior notices.

If the balance is unaffordable, review payment-plan, hardship, penalty, or professional-review options before waiting another year.

Build an action plan

Useful paths after an IRS notice

These paths help you move from reading to organizing the next step without turning the page into a sales pitch.

Offer in Compromise guide Notice decoder Professional help

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is CP71 Notice serious?

Use it to confirm the balance, tax year, penalties, interest, and whether collection risk has changed.

Should I ignore an IRS notice if I cannot pay?

No. Even if you cannot pay in full, responding and understanding options can help reduce collection risk.

Next step

Need Help With a Tax Problem?

Learn your options, gather your documents, and connect with qualified tax professionals when a situation calls for individual review.