This is the first reminder notice that you have a balance due on a tax account.

The IRS has previously sent a notice about a balance due on a tax account. This reminder notice alerts you that there is an outstanding balance and, if not paid within 10 days, the possible actions the IRS may take.

Sections of the Notice:

• Header Section: This area contains the Notice Number, the applicable tax year, the notice date, your Social Security Number and the IRS contact number.
• Body Section: The body of the notice will show the balance due for the tax period, what tax form was submitted, and the break down of any penalties and interest included in the balance. The notice will direct you to contact the IRS at the number listed in the header section if you do not agree.
• Response Section: The appropriate responses to the notice are: (1) to pay the balance due, or if that is not possible, (2) contact the IRS at the phone number printed at the top of the notice to determine if an installment agreement can be made. If you don’t pay or arrange an installment agreement the IRS may file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien.
  If you don’t agree with the notice call the number at the top of the notice to notify the IRS.
  The notice will have a coupon at the bottom or end of the notice to include with your payment.

Sample CP 501: PDF Pages 1-4

Note that any link in the information above is updated each year automatically and will take you to the most recent version of the document at the time it is accessed.