IRS Notice CP504, also referred to as the Final Notice, is a formal communication indicating that the taxpayer has failed to address an outstanding federal tax debt. It means the IRS has not received payment for a tax balance previously assessed. The taxpayer will have already received earlier notices, and this one signals that the situation is escalating.
CP504 is not just another reminder—it is a Notice of Intent to Levy under Internal Revenue Code Section 6331(d). It serves as a final warning before the IRS takes aggressive collection actions, such as levying state tax refunds or initiating federal liens. Understanding the content and consequences of Notice CP504 is critical to avoiding severe financial repercussions.
What does Notice CP504 include?
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- Amount due: Including original tax liability, interest, and penalties.
- Due date: Generally 30 days from the date on the notice.
- Payment instructions: Via electronic methods, check, or money order to the U.S. Treasury.
- Legal warnings: If no action is taken, the IRS may levy state tax refunds and begin further enforcement efforts.
Potential IRS actions following CP504
Several things may happen if the taxpayer fails to respond, such as:
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- State tax refund levy: Immediate seizure without further notice.
- Federal levy: On wages, bank accounts, retirement accounts, business and personal assets, and even Social Security benefits.
- Federal Tax Lien (NFTL): Public record claim on all property owned by the taxpayer, damaging credit and financial credibility.
- Passport revocation or denial: For certain seriously delinquent tax debts under IRC § 7345.
What if the taxpayer disagrees?
The CP504 notice can be challenged through the following means:
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- Collection Appeals Program (CAP): Submit Form 9423 to request a review before collection.
- Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing: If eligible, request a hearing under IRC § 6330.
- Request for penalty or interest abatement: File Form 843 or provide a written explanation with supporting documentation.
Taxpayers should read the notice carefully and gather relevant financial records (e.g., canceled checks, corrected returns) before contacting the IRS.
Relevance for Taxpayers
Notice CP504 is one of the last opportunities to resolve a tax debt before the IRS enforces collection by legal means. Failure to act can result in wage garnishment, property seizure, credit damage, and restricted international travel.
For individuals and businesses alike, this notice represents a point of no return. Once the IRS initiates a levy or files a lien, reversing the process becomes legally and procedurally more difficult. Responding promptly—either by paying, negotiating a payment plan, or pursuing an appeal—can preserve financial stability and legal standing.
We Can Help!
CP504 is a critical warning that must not be ignored. If you’ve received this notice, time is of the essence.
At JH Tax Law, our team can help you evaluate your options, challenge the IRS’s position when warranted, and ensure compliance with all applicable legal procedures to prevent further collection actions. Contact our office for a confidential consultation today.