You can pay your federal taxes through several convenient methods offered by the IRS:
Electronic Payment Options
- IRS Online Account : Create an account at IRS.gov to view your balance, payment history, and make payments directly from your bank account. You can schedule payments up to 365 days in advance
- Direct Pay : Pay directly from your checking or savings account with no fees or registration required. This is a fast, secure option available on IRS.gov/DirectPay. You can schedule or make same-day payments
- Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) : A free service from the U.S. Department of the Treasury for individuals and businesses to pay taxes online or by phone 24/7. Requires enrollment but allows scheduling payments up to a year in advance
- Debit or Credit Card : You can pay online, by phone, or mobile device through IRS-authorized payment processors. Note these processors charge a convenience fee; the IRS does not
- Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW) : Available when filing electronically, this option withdraws payment directly from your bank account
Other Payment Methods
- Check or Money Order : Mail a check or money order payable to "United States Treasury" with your Social Security number, name, address, phone number, and Form 1040-V voucher to the IRS. This method requires mailing before the tax deadline to avoid penalties
- Cash Payments : Pay cash in person at authorized retail partners after verifying your information online at IRS.gov/paywithcash
- Payment via Tax Software or Tax Professional : Many tax preparation software programs allow you to schedule payments or pay directly when filing. Tax professionals can also schedule payments on your behalf
Summary
The easiest and most common way is to use IRS Direct Pay or your IRS Online Account to pay directly from your bank account with no fees. Alternatively, EFTPS offers a robust option for scheduling payments. Credit/debit card payments are convenient but incur fees. Paper checks and cash payments are still accepted but less recommended due to processing time and potential delays
. For detailed instructions and to make payments, visit the IRS payments page at IRS.gov/payments.
