IRS Payment Options
Official Guide to Tax Payment Methods - Updated: December 20, 2025
Tax Payment Overview
The IRS provides multiple convenient ways to pay your taxes. Choose the method that works best for your situation. Most payment methods are free, though some credit card payments may include processing fees.
Key Payment Information:
- Due Date: April 15 for most individual returns
- Extensions: Automatic 6-month extension available
- Penalties: 0.5% per month for late payments
- Minimum Payment: $1 for electronic payments
Electronic Payment Options
💳 Direct Pay
Pay directly from your bank account or by credit/debit card through IRS Free File.
- Available 24/7
- No fees for debit cards
- Small fee for credit cards
- Instant confirmation
🏦 EFTPS
Electronic Federal Tax Payment System - the IRS's official payment system.
- Free to use
- Direct from bank account
- Schedule future payments
- Payment history available
📱 IRS2Go App
Mobile app for making tax payments on the go.
- Free app download
- Secure mobile payments
- Payment tracking
- Push notifications
Traditional Payment Methods
💰 Check or Money Order
Traditional mail payment method.
- Make payable to "United States Treasury"
- Include Form 1040-V payment voucher
- Allow 7-10 days for processing
- Keep copies of all documents
🏪 Cash at Retail Locations
Pay at authorized retail partners.
- Available at participating retailers
- Convenient locations
- Immediate receipt
- Small service fee may apply
Payment Plans and Extensions
Installment Agreements
If you can't pay your taxes in full by the due date, you may qualify for an installment agreement.
- Short-term: Up to 120 days for taxes under $100,000
- Long-term: Up to 72 months for larger amounts
- Online application: Available through IRS Online Payment Agreement
- Automatic approval: For eligible taxpayers
Filing Extensions
You can get an automatic extension to file, but this doesn't extend your payment due date.
- Form 4868: Automatic 6-month extension to file
- Payment still due: April 15 (or request extension)
- Interest and penalties: May apply if payment is late
Payment Confirmation and Records
Keep Detailed Records
Maintain proof of all tax payments:
- EFTPS confirmation: Email and online records
- Direct Pay receipt: Downloadable confirmation
- Cancelled checks: Keep for mailed payments
- Payment vouchers: Form 1040-V copies
Verify Your Payments
You can check payment status through:
- IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool
- EFTPS account history
- Bank account statements
- Tax professional access