How to make a FED individual tax payment (IRS Direct Pay)

Sugam Sharma

Method 1 (Best): IRS Direct Pay from Bank Account

✔ Free
✔ Same-day confirmation
✔ No IRS account required

Step 1: Go to IRS Direct Pay

Visit IRS Direct Pay on the IRS website.

Click “Make a Payment” → “IRS Direct Pay”

Step 2: Verify your identity

You’ll be asked to verify using:

• SSN or ITIN
• Filing status
• Address
• Info from a prior-year tax return (AGI or refund amount)

Step 3: Enter payment details

Select:

• Reason for Payment
• Balance Due (tax return)
• Estimated Tax (quarterly payments)
• Extension
• Apply Payment To
• 1040 – U.S. Individual Income Tax
• Tax Year
• Example: 2025 for 2025 estimates

Step 4: Enter bank information

Provide:

• Routing number
• Account number
• Checking or savings

Enter the payment amount.

Step 5: Review & submit

• Review all details carefully
• Submit payment
• Save or screenshot the confirmation number

✅ Payment is usually processed within 1–2 business days

Other acceptable payment methods (less preferred)

Option 2: EFTPS (Enrollment required)

• Requires prior enrollment and PIN
• Good for recurring payments
• Slower setup

Option 3: Credit/Debit Card

• Available via IRS-approved processors
• Processing fees apply