Understand your IRS notice
What each notice means in plain English, the deadline that matters, and whether the penalty can usually be removed.
- CP14: your first bill for unpaid tax (individual).
- CP501: reminder that a balance is still due.
- CP503: second reminder, more urgent.
- CP504: notice of intent to levy. Time-sensitive.
- CP161: balance due on a business return.
- CP215: a civil penalty charged to a business.
- CP2000: the IRS says your reported income doesn't match its records.
Not sure which you have?
The notice number is in the top-right corner of the letter, starting with "CP." Or just run the screener and we'll route you.