Free help from licensed tax pros. Not the IRS.Licensed tax pros in all 50 statesEspañol

CP503, explained

Second reminder you still owe.

Updated October 8, 2026Fact checked
How urgentHigh

Second reminder you still owe.

The short answer

A CP503 is the second reminder that you owe. The IRS has not seen a payment or reply to its earlier notices. Pay by the date on the notice to stop more penalties and interest, or set up a plan. A lien may come next.

Key facts

  • It is the second reminder for the same balance.
  • The IRS says it may file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien if it has not already.
  • A lien can make it harder to get credit.

Where it falls

  1. 1. CP14First bill for unpaid tax
  2. 2. CP501First reminder you still owe
  3. 3. CP503Second reminder you still owe
  4. 4. CP504Notice of intent to levy
  5. 5. LT11 or Letter 1058Final notice of intent to levy and your right to a hearing

What to do next

  • Pay the full balance by the due date, or apply for a plan.
  • Already paid or fixed it? Call anyway so your account shows it.
  • You can ask for a Collection Appeals Program appeal before collection starts.

Check your balance in your own IRS online account, and use the phone number on the notice or on irs.gov.

Results depend on your situation. Not every case qualifies.

Common questions

What is a CP503 notice?

A CP503 is the second reminder that you owe. The IRS has not seen a payment or reply to its earlier notices. Pay by the date on the notice to stop more penalties and interest, or set up a plan. A lien may come next.

How urgent is a CP503?

High. Act by the date on the notice so it does not move up the ladder. The date on your notice is the one that counts.

Run the numbers with our free tax tools, like the penalty and payment plan math.

See your options

A few questions. A tax pro calls you back.

Free tools: penalty calculator, 10 year clock, IRS offer data

Free to use. Not the IRS or any government agency. Results depend on your situation. Not every case qualifies.