Plainly is a free tool. It is not part of any government agency.
Your IRS CP71A Notice, Explained
Also called: Notice CP71A
Last reviewed 2026-07-12
Holding this letter?
Plainly reads it with you and shows what to send and when. It is free.
What this notice usually means
IRS Notice CP71A reminds you of a tax balance you still owe. The IRS has placed your account in currently not collectible status, which means it has decided not to actively pursue payment for now. If your financial situation has not changed, you do not need to do anything right away. Interest keeps adding to the balance during this time. The IRS decides your tax account.
See every source line for this notice
“We’re reminding you of an outstanding balance on your account. Your account will remain in non-collectable status until your financial situation changes.”
“If your financial situation hasn’t changed, you don’t need to do anything at this time.”
“Continue filing your taxes timely to let us know if your financial situation changes.”
“Yes, interest accrues on your unpaid balance until you pay it in full.”
What to do now
- 1
Check if your situation matches your notice
CP71A is sent while your account is marked currently not collectible. If that no longer fits your situation, the notice explains how to reach the IRS.
- 2
Do nothing extra if your finances have not changed
If nothing has changed for you, you likely do not need to respond right now.
- 3
Keep filing your taxes on time
Filing on time each year lets the IRS know if your financial situation changes.
- 4
Pay what you can to limit interest
Interest keeps adding to your balance in currently not collectible status. Paying what you can, even a little, can help.
- 5
Look into an offer in compromise if it fits your situation
An offer in compromise can let you settle a tax debt for less than the full amount in some cases.
Plainly can build this list with you, using your own letter. Start with my letter
We did not verify a general deadline for this letter. Your letter shows the real date.
Wondering which date applies to you? Check it with Plainly
Sources
- IRSRetrieved 2026-07-12
Last reviewed 2026-07-12
Related notices
Got a letter like this?
Paste or upload it and Plainly reads it for you, checks it against the published rules, and builds your proof checklist. Free.
Start with your letter