IRS Notice CP71A: Annual reminder of balance due
Quick answerAn annual statement of the total amount you still owe, including penalties and interest.
Letter / noticeCP71A
MeaningAnnual reminder of balance due
Action needed?Yes — see steps
What happens next
Sent yearly until the balance is resolved or the collection statute expires.
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What you should do
- If you're already on a plan, keep paying
- Otherwise pay or request a payment plan
Scam check: the IRS first contacts you by mail. Use only the phone numbers printed on your letter or on IRS.gov — never ones from a text, email or unofficial site.
Frequently asked questions
What does IRS Notice CP71A mean?
An annual statement of the total amount you still owe, including penalties and interest.
What should I do?
If you're already on a plan, keep paying Otherwise pay or request a payment plan
How long does it take?
Sent yearly until the balance is resolved or the collection statute expires.
Sources
- IRS: Understanding your IRS notice or letter
- IRS: Get Transcript
- Taxpayer Advocate Service (independent help inside the IRS)
Written by the editorial team and checked against the official sources above. See our editorial policy.
By the TranscriptCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-11-12.