What are the steps to pay taxes to the IRS?
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To pay taxes to the IRS, you have several options, each with specific steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide for 2025:
1. Determine Your Tax Owed
- Complete your tax return (Form 1040 or 1040-SR) and calculate the amount you owe on line 37.
- If you are making an estimated tax payment, use Form 1040-ES or the IRS online tools to determine the amount due.
2. Choose a Payment Method
A. IRS Direct Pay (Bank Account)
- Go to [IRS Direct Pay](
- Select the type of payment (e.g., balance due, estimated tax).
- Enter your tax information and bank account details.
- Schedule your payment (can be set up to 365 days in advance).
- Receive instant confirmation.
B. Debit or Credit Card / Digital Wallet
- Go to [IRS.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card](
- Choose an approved payment processor (e.g., Pay1040, ACI Payments, Inc.).
- Enter your payment information (card or digital wallet such as PayPal, Click to Pay, or Venmo).
- Pay the amount due (note: a processing fee applies, which varies by processor and payment amount).
- Receive confirmation. No part of the card service fee goes to the IRS.
C. Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW)
- Available only when e-filing your tax return using tax software or a tax professional.
- Select EFW as your payment method during the e-filing process.
- Enter your bank account information and the amount to pay.
- The payment will be withdrawn on the date you specify.
D. Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)
- Go to [EFTPS.gov](
- Enroll if you haven’t already (enrollment may take several days).
- Once enrolled, log in and schedule your payment from your bank account.
- EFTPS is free and can be used for individual and business tax payments.
E. IRS2Go Mobile App
- Download the IRS2Go app from your device’s app store.
- Use the app to pay via Direct Pay or debit/credit card.
F. Pay by Check or Money Order
- Make your check or money order payable to “United States Treasury.”
- Write “2024 Form 1040” (or the applicable form), your name, address, daytime phone number, and SSN on the payment.
- Do not send cash.
- Attach Form 1040-V (Payment Voucher) if paying with your return.
- Mail your payment to the address listed in the Form 1040 instructions for your state or use the address on your IRS notice.
G. Pay with Cash
- Go to [IRS.gov/PayCash](
- Follow the instructions to make a cash payment at a participating retail partner (e.g., VanillaDirect).
- There is a small fee for this service.
H. Same-Day Wire Transfer
- Contact your financial institution to arrange a same-day wire payment.
- Additional fees may apply; check with your bank for details.
3. If You Cannot Pay in Full
- Pay as much as you can by the due date to reduce penalties and interest.
- Apply for an [Online Payment Agreement]( to set up a monthly installment plan.
- You may also consider an Offer in Compromise or request a temporary delay of collection if you are experiencing financial hardship.
4. After Payment
- Keep your confirmation or receipt for your records.
- If you mailed a check, keep a copy and note the date sent.
- Monitor your bank account or card statement to ensure the payment was processed.
5. Special Notes
- Do not send cash through the mail.
- For payments of $100 million or more, you must use multiple checks or an electronic method, as the IRS cannot accept a single check for that amount.
- Card processing fees are not paid to the IRS and are not refundable.
- If you overpay, the IRS will refund the excess unless you owe other debts.
6. Where to Get Help
- Visit [IRS.gov/Payments]( for more details and links to all payment options.
- Use the IRS2Go app for payment and refund status.
- Call the IRS at the number on your notice or 800-829-1040 for assistance.
By following these steps, you can pay your taxes to the IRS securely and efficiently.
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