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CP501

Reminder Notice

Complete guide for tax professionals on responding to IRS CP501 notices, including deadlines, required documentation, and response strategies.

Response Deadline

10 days

IRS: 1-800-829-1040View on IRS.gov

What Triggers This IRS Notice

  • 1Previous balance due notice (CP14) was not responded to
  • 2Payment plan was not set up
  • 3Payment was not made by the deadline

What the IRS Is Claiming

  • The original balance is still owed
  • Additional interest and penalties have accrued
  • Immediate action is required to avoid further collection

Key Deadlines and Response Timelines

This is a reminder notice. While it states you should pay within 10 days, collection action typically doesn't begin until after the CP504 notice.

What Happens If You Do Not Respond

  • Additional interest and penalties continue
  • More aggressive collection notices will follow
  • CP503 and CP504 notices will be sent if no action taken

Documentation Commonly Required

Copy of the CP501 notice
Records of any payments made since the original notice
Documentation for payment plan request

When IRS Information Is Incorrect

  • 1
    Provide proof of payment if already paid
  • 2
    Show documentation if the balance was disputed

How Tax Professionals Typically Respond

  1. 1

    Pay the balance in full if possible

  2. 2

    Set up a payment plan online at IRS.gov

  3. 3

    Contact IRS if you already paid or disputed the amount

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Related Notices

CP2000

Income Discrepancy Notice

CP14

Balance Due Notice

CP503

Second Reminder Notice

CP504

Intent to Levy Notice

LT11

Final Notice of Intent to Levy