Informational

IRS CP71A Notice

Annual Reminder of Balance Due

Annual notice that you still owe taxes

What is CP71A? CP71A is an annual reminder notice that you have an unpaid tax balance.

What This Notice Means

CP71A is an annual reminder notice that you have an unpaid tax balance. It is informational and sent even if you are already on a payment plan.

Why You Received This Notice

1
You have an outstanding tax balance
2
This is an annual reminder even if you are making payments
3
The IRS is required to notify you of the balance annually

Important Deadline

There is no deadline on this notice. The IRS states your account remains in non-collectable status until your financial situation changes.

What You Should Do

Review the balance to ensure it is accurate
If your financial situation has not changed, the IRS states you do not need to do anything at this time
Contact the IRS if your financial situation has worsened
Keep the notice for your records

Resolution Options That May Help

Payment Plan

Taxpayers with steady income who can afford monthly payments

CNC Status

Taxpayers experiencing severe financial hardship

What NOT to Do

Do NOT ignore the notice
Do NOT stop making payments if you have a plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to do anything?

The IRS states that if your financial situation has not changed you do not need to do anything at this time, and to continue filing your taxes timely so it knows if your situation changes.

Is my debt going away while I am in this status?

No. The IRS states interest accrues on the unpaid balance until it is paid in full, and that a late payment penalty applies. Non-collectable status pauses collection; it does not cancel the debt.

Need Help With This Notice?

Use our free tools to understand your options and connect with professionals who can help.

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Recommended Next Steps

Verify the balance matches your records
Continue with your payment plan if active

Sources and last reviewed

Understanding your CP71A notice — Internal Revenue Service, retrieved 2026-08-20

Sourced to primary IRS materials and editorially reviewed on 2026-08-20. Not reviewed by a tax professional. Not tax advice. This page explains a notice in general terms and is not tax or legal advice about your situation. Always use the dates and instructions printed on the notice you actually received. Report a correction.