The IRS Prefers Online Payments — Here’s How to Make Yours

The Internal Revenue Service strongly encourages taxpayers to make payments electronically rather than mailing a paper check. Online payments are faster, more secure, and provide immediate confirmation — giving you peace of mind that your payment was received on time.

If you owe taxes for 2025, need to make an estimated payment, or are paying a balance due, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to paying online.

Why Pay Online Instead of Mailing a Check?

Electronic payments:

• Process faster than mailed checks

• Reduce the risk of mail delays or lost payments

• Provide immediate confirmation

• Allow you to schedule payments in advance

• Help ensure your payment is credited correctly

Step-by-Step: How to Make an IRS Payment Online

Step 1: Go to IRS.gov

Visit IRS.gov and click on “Make a Payment.”

Step 2: Choose Your Payment Method

You’ll typically see two main options:

Option 1: IRS Direct Pay (Bank Account – No Fee)

• Pay directly from your checking or savings account

• No registration required

• No processing fee

• Ideal for most individual taxpayers

Select: “Pay from your bank account (Direct Pay)”

Option 2: Debit Card, Credit Card, or Digital Wallet

• Processed through IRS-approved payment processors

• Convenience fees apply

• Can use debit card, credit card, or services like PayPal

Select: “Pay by Card”

Step 3: Select the Reason for Payment

You will choose:

• Reason for payment (Balance Due, Estimated Tax, Extension, etc.)

• Tax year (be sure to select the correct year)

• Tax form (most individuals select Form 1040)

Step 4: Verify Your Identity

You will need:

• Social Security Number (or ITIN)

• Date of birth

• Filing status from your most recently filed return

• Address from your most recently filed return

This information is used to confirm your identity.

Step 5: Enter Payment Information

Provide:

• Payment amount

• Payment date (you can schedule ahead)

• Bank routing and account number (for Direct Pay)

  OR

• Card information (if paying by debit/credit)

Step 6: Review and Submit

Carefully review your information before submitting.
Once submitted:

• Save or print your confirmation number

• Keep confirmation for your records

A Few Important Reminders

• Make sure you select the correct tax year.

• Payments submitted by the deadline count as timely.

• Always keep your confirmation number.

If you have questions about how much to pay, which tax year applies, or whether estimated payments are required, our team at DWD CPAs & Advisors is happy to help. Making the correct payment — to the correct year — is just as important as making the payment itself.