Need to make a payment to the IRS? Whether you're covering a tax balance, paying quarterly estimates, or making an extension payment, the IRS makes it easy to pay online—and so do we.
At Trail CPA, we recommend using the IRS’s Direct Pay system, which is fast, secure, and fee-free when paying from your bank account. Below, you’ll find a simple walkthrough of your options and the steps to ensure your payment is processed correctly.
IRS Payment Options
You can pay your federal taxes online in several ways:
1. Pay Directly from Your Bank Account (Recommended)
No fees
No login required
Secure and instant confirmation
2. Pay Through Your IRS Online Account
Recommended if you already have an IRS login
Lets you view your payment history and manage future payments
3. Pay by Debit or Credit Card
Processing fees apply
Use only if other options are not available
To get started, visit the IRS payments page:
https://www.irs.gov/payments
Step-by-Step: How to Pay Using Direct Pay
Here’s how to make a payment from your bank account through the IRS website:
1. Visit the IRS Direct Pay Page
Go to https://www.irs.gov/payments and click “Pay Now with Direct Pay.”
2. Select Payment Details
Make a Payment
Reason for Payment
Choose one of the following:Estimated Tax – Use this for quarterly estimated payments
Balance Due – For paying your finalized tax return balance
Extension – If you're making a payment with your extension filing
Important: If you choose to pay your balance directly through the IRS website instead of through Trail CPA, please notify your accountant to avoid duplicate payments.
Apply Payment To
Most clients will select “1040” (individual income tax return).For business taxes:
C Corporations: Pay under the business’s EIN
Pass-through entities (LLCs, partnerships, S Corps): Pay under your personal return (1040)
Tax Period for Payment
Use your best judgment or contact your accountant if you're unsure.
3. Verify Your Identity
You’ll need to enter your filing status, name, address, and other details from a prior return.
4. Enter Payment Information
Input the payment amount and your bank account details.
5. Review and Sign
Review everything carefully, sign electronically, and submit.
Final Step: Let Your Accountant Know
Once your payment is submitted, please let your Trail CPA team know:
The amount paid
The date of payment
What the payment was for (e.g., Q3 estimated tax, extension, balance due)
This helps us track your tax payments accurately and ensure everything is in order when it’s time to file your next return.
Questions?
If you’re unsure about what to pay, when to pay, or how to apply it—reach out to your Trail CPA team. We’re happy to guide you and help avoid any errors or duplicate payments.