Washington News

In IR-2024-116, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) outlined ways that late tax filers could comply with filing and payment rules.

While over 139 million taxpayer returns were filed this year, there are some individuals who may have neglected to file because they were not able to pay their full tax bill. The IRS encourages these taxpayers to file and start making as many payments as possible. Taxpayers who file and start to make payments can reduce their late-filing penalties and interest.

The IRS explains that there are five main options for making tax payments.

1. Direct Pay - Taxpayers may make payments directly from a checking or savings account. There is no cost for this service, and the payments may be scheduled up to 365 days after the amount is initially due. Taxpayers will receive an email confirmation for these payments.
2. Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) - Individuals or businesses making large payments may use the EFTPS. This allows up to five payments per day. Taxpayers may enroll and schedule payments up to 365 days in advance.
3. Electronic Funds Payment - A third option is to use an online tax software. The tax software will handle the electronic payments. If you are using a professional tax preparer, this tax preparer may establish your electronic funds withdrawal.
4. Payment Processor - There are businesses that will handle your credit card, debit card or digital wallet payments. There is a service fee charge that is an additional amount to the taxes owed.
5. IRS Online Account - The IRS encourages taxpayers to create an IRS Online Account. You may make payments using the online account. The account enables you to understand how much you owe, your payment history and potential payment plan details.

If you are paying a previous year's tax liability, you may want to include IRS Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher. You should be careful to mail the payments to the correct address. If you are paying by cash through a participating retail store, there is a $500 limit per payment, and a processing fee.

Some taxpayers are not able to pay in full and establish a payment plan. On IRS.gov, the Online Payment Agreement (OPA) tool can be used to set up a payment plan. Another option is an "Offer in Compromise," though which the IRS accepts an amount less than the original tax. You may use the Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool on IRS.gov to determine eligibility. Finally, there are circumstances in which taxpayers are in a difficult financial condition and the IRS grants them a delay in the tax collection.