Where to log in to pay the IRS online
The IRS does not have a single login portal for making payments. Instead, you use IRS Direct Pay, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), or a credit or debit card through an approved payment processor. Each one is a separate system with its own login — you do not create an "IRS account" the way you would for a bank or email.
If you want to check what you owe or see your payment history, that requires a different login: the IRS Online Account, which is part of IRS.gov. This account lets you view your balance and past payments, but you cannot pay directly from it. You have to leave that account and go to one of the payment systems to actually send money.
The confusion happens because the IRS runs multiple systems for different purposes. This guide walks you through which login you need for what, and how to set each one up.
Key Takeaways
- The IRS Online Account (on IRS.gov) shows what you owe and your payment history, but does not process payments.
- IRS Direct Pay and EFTPS are free payment systems, each with its own separate login and enrollment process.
- Credit and debit card payments go through third-party processors (not the IRS), which charge a fee and have their own logins.
- You do not need to log in to make a one-time payment by mail, phone, or bank transfer — but logging in lets you track what you sent.
IRS Online Account: checking your balance and payment history
The IRS Online Account is the main login on IRS.gov. It shows your tax account balance, past payments, payment dates, and amounts applied to each tax year. You can also see notices the IRS has sent you and set up payment reminders.
To create an account, go to IRS.gov and look for "Online Account" in the top navigation. You will need to verify your identity using either a photo ID and Social Security number, or by answering security questions based on your credit history. The IRS also accepts login through Login.gov, a government-wide identity service — if you already have a Login.gov account, you can use that instead of creating a separate IRS login.
Once you are logged in, you can see your current balance under "Tax Account." The balance shown is what you owe as of the most recent IRS records, which may be a few days behind actual payments you have already sent. If you made a payment in the last few days, it may not show up yet.
IRS Direct Pay: the free system for paying by bank account
IRS Direct Pay is a free payment system run directly by the IRS. You log in with a separate account (not your IRS Online Account login) and authorize a one-time bank transfer from your checking or savings account. There is no fee, and the IRS receives the payment directly.
To enroll, go to IRS.gov and search for "IRS Direct Pay." You will create a new login using your email address and a password you choose. You do not need to pre-register or wait for approval — you can make a payment the same day you sign up. During payment, you enter your bank routing number and account number, and choose a payment date (you can schedule it for a future date if you want to time it with a paycheck).
Direct Pay is the fastest and cheapest option if you have a bank account and are comfortable entering your banking information online. The IRS confirms your payment when ready, and you can print a confirmation number right away. Payments typically clear within one business day.
EFTPS: the system for recurring or business payments
EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System) is another free IRS payment system, designed for people who pay taxes regularly or who run a business. It works similarly to Direct Pay — you log in and authorize a bank transfer — but it has more options for scheduling recurring payments and managing multiple tax types.
EFTPS enrollment takes longer than Direct Pay. You enroll online at EFTPS.gov, but the IRS mails you a PIN within two weeks. You cannot make a payment until you receive the PIN and set up your account. If you need to pay before the PIN arrives, use IRS Direct Pay instead.
EFTPS is most useful if you make quarterly estimated tax payments, run a payroll, or pay employment taxes. If you are paying a one-time balance, Direct Pay is simpler and faster.
Credit and debit card payments through third-party processors
If you want to pay by credit or debit card, you do not log in to an IRS system. Instead, you go to one of several approved payment processors — Worldpay, Authorize.Net, PayPal, or 2Checkout — each of which has its own website and login. The IRS publishes the list of approved processors on IRS.gov under "Payment by Credit or Debit Card."
Each processor charges a fee (usually 1.87% to 2.35% of the payment amount) for handling the transaction. You enter your card information during payment, and the processor sends the money to the IRS on your behalf. You do not need to create an account with the processor beforehand — you can pay as a guest — but creating an account lets you save your card and see your payment history with that processor.
Credit card payments are useful if you want to earn rewards points or if you do not have a bank account, but the fee makes them more expensive than Direct Pay or EFTPS. The processor will give you a confirmation number, but it may take a few days for the payment to show up in your IRS Online Account.
What to do if you forget your login or cannot access your account
If you forget your password for the IRS Online Account, go to IRS.gov, click "Online Account," and select "Forgot Password." You will verify your identity again using your photo ID and Social Security number, or through Login.gov if you use that service. The IRS will email you a link to reset your password.
If you forget your Direct Pay or EFTPS login, each system has its own password recovery process on their respective websites. Direct Pay password recovery is when ready; EFTPS may require you to verify your identity by phone.
If you cannot log in because you do not remember which email address you used, or if you get an error message, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (for individual taxes) or 1-800-829-4933 (for business taxes). Have your Social Security number or Employer Identification Number ready. The IRS can confirm whether you have an account and help you regain access.
Security and protecting your login information
The IRS Online Account, Direct Pay, and EFTPS all use encryption to protect your login and payment information. When you log in, look for a padlock icon in your browser address bar — this means the connection is find.
Never share your login credentials with anyone, including IRS employees. The IRS will never ask for your password by email or phone. If you receive an email claiming to be from the IRS and asking you to log in or verify information, do not click the link — it is likely a phishing scam. Instead, go directly to IRS.gov in your browser and log in from there.
If you use a shared computer, always log out when you are finished. For added security, consider using a password manager to store your IRS logins separately from other passwords.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay the IRS without logging in?
Yes. You can mail a check or money order, pay by phone at 1-800-829-1040, or use a payment processor without creating an account (as a guest). Logging in is optional — it is useful only if you want to track your payment history or schedule recurring payments.
Do I need separate logins for Direct Pay and EFTPS?
Yes. Direct Pay and EFTPS are two different systems run by the IRS. Your login for one does not work for the other. You can use both if you want, but you will need to enroll and create a login for each one separately.
Why does my payment not show up in my IRS Online Account yet?
Payments typically take one to three business days to appear in your account after you send them. If you paid by credit card through a third-party processor, it may take longer. Check your confirmation number to verify the payment was received, then wait a few more days before contacting the IRS.
What if I do not have a bank account for Direct Pay or EFTPS?
You can pay by credit or debit card through an approved processor, by mail with a check or money order, or by phone. Paying by card charges a fee, but it does not require a bank account.
Is the IRS Online Account the same as my tax return login?
No. The IRS Online Account is separate from any login you use to file your tax return (such as through tax software or a tax professional's portal). The Online Account is only for viewing your tax account balance and payment history with the IRS.