Use the instructions below to submit your federal income tax payment electronically through IRS Direct Pay. This is a free, secure service that debits directly from your checking or savings account.
Before you begin, have ready
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
- Your bank routing number and account number
- Your most recently filed tax return (for identity verification)
- The payment amount due
Step-by-step payment instructions
Step 1: Go to IRS Direct Pay
Visit directpay.irs.gov and click "Make a Payment."
Step 2: Select payment type
On the Tax Information screen (Step 1 of 5), fill in the three fields based on what you are paying:
- 2025 balance due: "Balance Due" / "Income Tax - Form 1040" / Tax Year "2025"
- 2025 extension payment: "Extension" / "4868 (for 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ)" / Tax Year "2025"
- 2026 estimated tax: "Estimated Tax" / "1040-ES" / Tax Year "2026"
Step 3: Verify your identity
Enter the tax year of your most recently filed return, your filing status, name, address, and date of birth. Married filers should use the primary taxpayer's information (the person listed first on the return).
Step 4: Enter payment information
Provide your bank routing number and account number. Select your desired payment date. Payments can be scheduled up to 365 days in advance.
Step 5: Review and submit
Confirm all details and submit. You will receive a confirmation number, so save it for your records. We recommend opting in to receive a confirmation email as well.
Important notes
- The 2025 tax balance due deadline is April 15, 2026.
- Payments submitted before 8:00 PM ET on a business day are generally treated as received that day.
- You may cancel or modify a scheduled payment up to 2 business days before the scheduled date using your confirmation number.
- Direct Pay cannot be used for payments of $10 million or more.
- If you have never filed a tax return, or have not filed in more than 6 years, you will need to use an alternative payment method.
This guide is provided by JSBC for informational purposes and reflects the IRS Direct Pay process at the time of writing. IRS screens and deadlines can change - always confirm current details on the official IRS site. Retain your payment confirmation number for your records.