IRS notice guide · Individuals
CP503: Second reminder: balance still unpaid
The IRS has not heard from you about an unpaid balance. A lien can follow.
Act within days
What it means
This is the second reminder. The IRS warns that if the balance stays unpaid it may file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien, a public record that can affect your credit and the sale or refinance of property.
How long you have. Pay or respond by the due date on the notice.
What to do now
- Act this week: pay, or set up a payment plan.
- If you cannot afford a plan, ask about currently not collectible status.
- If you disagree with the balance, call the number on the notice or have us do it.
Common mistakes
- Treating it like the first reminder. The next notice can be a notice of intent to levy.
Questions
Can Coastal Tax handle this notice for me?
Yes. Paige Fernald is an Enrolled Agent, so with your signed Form 2848 she can speak to the IRS for you, pull your transcripts and answer the notice.
Checked against the agency's own guidance on October 27, 2026: www.irs.gov. This page is general information. Your notice's own dates and instructions come first.