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Options for Taxpayers Who Need Help Paying Their Tax Bill

By: John A. Cocklereece, Travis Woolen

The IRS recently provided advice about payment options if a taxpayer cannot pay in full when filing their return.

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The filing and payment deadline for most 2025 federal tax returns is April 15, 2026. There are exceptions for taxpayers in a disaster area, combat zone, or living and working abroad. Taxpayers who can’t pay their tax bill by the deadline shouldn't panic – the IRS offers a variety of options to help taxpayers meet their obligations. Those struggling to meet their tax obligation may consider several options to resolve their tax bill. The Tax Debt Help tool on IRS.gov provides individuals and businesses with a simple, accessible way to explore payment options and identify next steps based on their situation. These options include:

Online Payment Plans

Most individual taxpayers qualify for an online payment plan. The quickest and easiest way to set up a payment plan is through the online payment agreement, available on IRS.gov. Setup fees may apply.

  • Short-term payment plan – The total balance owed is less than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties, and interest. This gives a taxpayer up to 180 days to pay their balance in full.
  • Long-term payment plan – Also known as a simple plan or installment agreement. This option is available online to individual taxpayers who owe $50,000 or less in combined tax, penalties, and interest. Most taxpayers have up to 10 years to pay off their balance, but the longer the term on the payment plan, the more interest, penalties, and fees will add up. Payments may be made using direct debit (automatic bank withdrawal). This eliminates the need to send in a payment each month, saves postage costs, and reduces the chance of default.

Once the online application is complete, the taxpayer is notified immediately whether their plan is approved. There’s no paperwork and no need to call, write or visit the IRS.

Other Payment Options

Anyone who can’t qualify for an online payment plan should consider these options:

  • Offer in compromise – Some taxpayers qualify to settle their tax liabilities for less than the total amount owed by submitting an Offer in Compromise. Taxpayers should use the Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool on IRS.gov to see if they qualify.
  • Temporary delay of collection – Taxpayers can contact the IRS to request a temporary delay of the collection process. If the IRS determines that the taxpayer is unable to pay, it may delay collection until the taxpayer’s financial condition improves. Penalties and interest continue to accrue until the full amount is paid.

Taxpayers can get details on these options and more by visiting the Tax Debt Help page or reviewing Topic 202, Tax payment options, on IRS.gov.

Penalty Relief to Eligible Taxpayers

Taxpayers may qualify for penalty relief if they tried to comply with tax laws but are unable to due to circumstances beyond their control.

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