How to Pay the IRS: Every Payment Option Explained
Whether you owe with your return, got a bill in the mail or need to make an estimated payment, there are several ways to pay the IRS. Some are free and instant, others cost a fee. Here's how to choose, and what to do if you can't pay it all.
By the Enrolled Agents and CPAs at A&W Tax Services · Updated
Free electronic options
- IRS Direct Pay: pay from a checking or savings account at irs.gov with no registration and no fee
- Your IRS online account: pay, schedule payments and see your balance and payment history
- Electronic funds withdrawal: pay from your bank account when you e-file your return
- EFTPS: the Treasury's free system for scheduling payments, required for most business payroll tax deposits
Options with fees
- Debit or credit card or digital wallet, through an IRS-approved payment processor that charges a fee
- Cash at participating retail stores through the IRS's cash payment partner, with a fee and a limit per payment
- Same-day wire through your bank, which may charge a fee
Paying by check or money order
Make it payable to the U.S. Treasury, and write your name, address, phone number, Social Security number or EIN, the tax year and the form or notice number on it. Send it with the payment voucher from your notice or Form 1040-V. The IRS is moving away from paper, so electronic payments are faster and give you an immediate confirmation.
Protect yourself from scams
The IRS never demands payment by gift card, prepaid card, wire transfer to an individual or cryptocurrency, and never threatens arrest over the phone. Pay only through irs.gov or the options listed on your notice.
If you can't pay in full
Pay what you can now to reduce interest, and file your return on time anyway. Then set up a short-term plan of up to 180 days or a monthly installment agreement, often online. If even a payment plan isn't realistic, ask about currently-not-collectible status or an offer in compromise.