Notice CP503 - Second Reminder
IRC Section: IRC § 6320
Response Deadline: 10 days
This is the IRS's second reminder that you owe money. They've already sent a CP14 and a CP501. You haven't responded. This is the last polite notice before the tone changes to 'we are going to take your assets.' Pay or set up a plan now, while it's still easy.
A CP503 is the second reminder in the IRS collection sequence. It arrives after a CP14 (initial bill) and a CP501 (first reminder) have been sent. The tone is sterner — the IRS is noting that you have not responded to prior notices and warning that further action will follow. This is still a reminder, not a levy notice, but it is the last automated notice before the CP504 intent-to-levy. The balance includes accumulated penalties and interest.
Common Triggers
- Unpaid CP502 balance
- No contact with IRS
- Large balance
Resolution Steps
- Step 1: Pay the full amount immediately
- Step 2: Contact us to discuss lien prevention options
- Step 3: Consider a payment plan or Offer in Compromise
- Step 4: Don't ignore this - lien may be filed
- Step 5: Respond within 10 days
Common Questions About CP503
- How many notices do I get before enforcement actions start?
- Typically, the IRS sends a CP14, CP501, and CP503 before escalating to a CP504 intent to levy. If you've reached CP503, you are one step away from levy notices.
- Is a CP503 worse than a CP501?
- Yes. The CP501 is a gentle reminder. The CP503 is an urgent reminder noting your non-response. After CP503, the next notice is a CP504, which authorizes the IRS to begin collection enforcement.
Related Notices
Additional Resources
This is an enforcement notice — the next move matters
This page explains what the letter is. For what to do — the deadline, the steps in order, and what representation changes — go to the action page on our resolution site: IRS CP503: What To Do Now →
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