In early 2026, the IRS announced a temporary pause on certain automated collection notices and actions. This is not the first time the agency has done this — similar pauses occurred during 2020–2022 and in late 2023. Here is what is currently paused, what is not, and what taxpayers should do during this window.
What Is Actually Paused
The IRS has paused the automated mailing of certain collection notices, specifically notices that were generated by the Automated Collection System (ACS) for balances that have been in the queue during the notice backlog. This primarily affects:
- CP14 balance due notices for certain older tax years
- Follow-up collection notices (CP501, CP503, CP504) in the automated queue
- Certain automated lien determination notices
Critical Distinction
What Is NOT Paused
Several important collection activities continue as normal:
- Revenue Officer cases: Active field collection cases continue without interruption
- Bank levies already issued: Levies that have been served on banks or employers remain in effect
- Tax return processing: The IRS continues to process returns and assess new liabilities
- Penalties and interest: These continue to accrue on unpaid balances regardless of the notice pause
- CSED clock: The 10-year collection statute continues to run (which actually benefits taxpayers)
- Refund offsets: The IRS can still apply your refund to an outstanding balance
What This Means for You
If you owe the IRS and have not yet received the full escalation of collection notices, the pause gives you a window — but it is not a reason to do nothing. Here is why:
- Interest compounds daily. Every day you wait, the balance grows. The failure-to-pay penalty is 0.5% per month (up to 25%) and interest accrues on the penalty itself.
- When the pause ends, the notices resume. The IRS has historically restarted collection activity with little warning. Taxpayers who used the pause to prepare were in much better shape than those who used it to wait.
- Resolution programs remain open. You can still apply for an OIC, set up an installment agreement, or request CNC status during the pause.
Concrete Steps to Take Now
1. File all missing returns
You cannot qualify for any IRS resolution program without filing all required returns. This is the single most important step and is entirely within your control.
2. Calculate your total balance
Request your IRS account transcript (Form 4506-T) or access your account online at IRS.gov to see your exact balance including penalties and interest.
3. Run the numbers on your options
Use the OIC calculator to check if you qualify for a settlement, or review the installment agreement guide to see which payment plan type fits your situation.
4. Check your CSED
Use the CSED calculator to see when your collection statute expires. If you are close to CSED, doing nothing may be the right strategy — but only if there are no tolling events.
The Bottom Line