Online IRS payment options
The best option depends on whether you want to:
- Pay from a bank account
- Use a card
- Review your balance
- Spread payments over time
| Method | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| IRS Direct Pay | Free | Making a one-time bank payment without creating an account |
| IRS Individual Online Account | Free | Viewing your balance and payment history before paying; making same-day or future bank transfers |
| Card or digital wallet | Processor fees vary; consumer debit fees are $2.10 to $2.15, while credit card fees are 1.75% to 1.85% | Paying through an approved third-party processor |
| IRS payment plan | No setup fee for a short-term plan; fees may apply to a long-term plan | Paying a tax balance over time |
Source: Internal Revenue Service (1,2)
Paying with IRS Direct Pay
IRS Direct Pay lets individuals pay directly from a U.S. checking or savings account without signing in. You can use it for a balance due, an extension, an installment agreement, or an estimated tax payment.
To pay:
- Select the payment type, reason, and tax year.
- Verify your identity using information from a prior-year return.
- Enter the amount, payment date, routing number, and account number.
- Review and authorize the payment.
- Save the confirmation number and request email confirmation if needed.
Note: You can schedule a payment up to 365 days in advance and generally change or cancel it up to two days before the scheduled date.
Paying through an IRS Online Account
An IRS Individual Online Account lets you view the amount you owe, check payment history, review scheduled payments, and pay from a bank account. You can pay the same day or schedule a payment up to 365 days in advance. New users must complete identity verification.
Paying by card or digital wallet
The IRS accepts debit cards, credit cards, and digital wallets through approved third-party processors. Fees and payment limits vary. Credit card interest may also apply if you carry a balance on your card.
Applying for an IRS payment plan
You may qualify for these IRS payment plans:
- A short-term plan if you owe less than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties, and interest and can pay within 180 days. There’s no setup fee.
- A long-term installment agreement (monthly payments for up to 72 months) if you owe $50,000 or less and have filed all required returns. Online setup fees are $22 for direct debit or $69 for other payment methods.
Note: Penalties and interest continue until the balance is paid in full. Low-income taxpayers may qualify for waived or reduced setup fees.
