How You Can Pay Your Taxes
If you think you'll owe taxes when you file your tax return, it's important to pay by the tax deadline to avoid interest and penalties. The IRS provides a variety of ways to pay taxes, letting you choose which is most convenient for you.
Electronic funds withdrawal when you e-file
When you e-file using tax preparation software or through a tax professional, you have the option to submit one or more payment requests as a direct debit. This allows you to choose a designated bank account and schedule the payment to be withdrawn for a future date, up to the return due date. Just make sure you have your account and routing number available when you file!
If you miss the due date, the payment must be made the same day that the tax return is transmitted, or within the previous five days of that date.
Use IRS Direct Pay
The IRS provides a portal on their website that allows you to make direct payments using your bank account without any fees or pre-registration. The portal is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and you will receive instant confirmation when the payment is submitted.
This portal will require your tax information, identity verification, payment information, review, and signing. You can make same-day payments, schedule payments up to 365 days in advance, reschedule or cancel payments, and search for your payment status.
Mail in a check or money order
If you'd like, you can mail in a personal check, money order, or cashier's check to the IRS to pay for outstanding taxes. The mailing address for sending in payments depends on your payment situation and where you live. Checks must be made payable to U.S. Treasury and must include:
Your name and address
Daytime phone number
Social Security number
Tax Year
Related tax form or notice number
Pay by card through a third-party processor
If you would like to pay by debit or credit card, the IRS has partnered with a few third-party payment processors. You can pay online or over the phone. This method does incur card processing fees.
Pay in person with cash
Cash payments can be made at IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers or participating retail stores. Retail partners only accept payments up to $1,000, so if you owe more than that, you should pay using one of the other options provided.
What to do if you can't pay your taxes
If you aren't able to pay your balance in full by the due date, the IRS offers options to qualified taxpayers to pay the balance over time with a payment plan. Your specific tax situation will determine what options are available to you. Once you complete your online application, you will receive immediate notification whether you have been approved for a payment plan.
Even if you can't pay your taxes in full by the due date, the IRS recommends you pay as much of your balance as possible to avoid penalties and interest on the unpaid balance. If you haven't filed your taxes yet and need help from an experienced tax preparer, give us a call at (360) 922-0235. Our preparers can help you find credits and deductions that may lower your tax debt or increase your tax refund.
Disclaimer: This material is prepared for informational purposes only, and is not tax advice. Please speak with a tax professional to see how this information may apply to you.
