If your tax return is ready to file but you can't pay the full balance due right away, you still have options. In most cases, it's better to file your return on time, even if you can't pay the full amount owed. Filing on time can help you avoid additional penalties related to late filing.
You can e-file your return now and either mail a payment, schedule an electronic withdrawal, or explore a payment plan if you need more time.
File Now and Pay by Mail
If you'd like to e-file your return but send your payment separately, choose Mailed Payment as your payment method.
With this option, you can:
- Mail a payment directly to the IRS or your state tax agency.
- Pay online through the IRS or your state's tax payment website.
- Submit your return now without making an immediate payment through the e-file process.
Schedule an Electronic Withdrawal
If you'd like the IRS or your state tax agency to withdraw your payment from your bank account on a later date, you can schedule an electronic withdrawal when you e-file.
Keep in mind:
- The withdrawal date cannot be later than the filing deadline for the applicable tax year.
- You do not have to pay the full balance due when scheduling a payment.
- You can choose both the payment amount and the withdrawal date during the e-file process.
How to Schedule a Future Electronic Payment
- Select E-file from the left menu bar.
- Choose Yes, I'm done with my return(s) and ready to file!
- In the Sign & File section, enter or select your bank account information.
- Enter the amount you want to pay. This does not have to be the full amount owed.
- Enter your phone number.
- Enter your payment date. The date must be on or before the filing deadline for that tax year.
- Continue through the remaining e-file steps until you reach the confirmation screen showing your return has been successfully transmitted.
If you owe state taxes, you'll also have the opportunity to enter a payment amount and payment date for your state return.
What If I File After the Deadline?
If you're filing after the tax filing deadline, you generally won't be able to select a future withdrawal date. Instead, the payment date must be the current date when you complete the e-file process.
What Happens if My Return Is Rejected?
If your tax return is rejected, any scheduled electronic payment associated with that filing will be canceled automatically.
After correcting and resubmitting your return, you can:
- Schedule a new electronic payment during the e-file process, or
- Choose another approved payment method.
Need More Time to Pay? Consider a Payment Plan
If you can't pay your tax balance in full, you may qualify for an IRS installment agreement, also known as a payment plan. These arrangements allow eligible taxpayers to make monthly payments over time rather than paying the entire balance at once.
For more information about setting up a payment plan, see our article on Installment Agreements (Form 9465).
Why Filing on Time Still Matters
Even if you can't pay everything you owe, filing your return on time is often the best first step. The IRS and state tax agencies generally charge separate penalties for filing late and paying late. By filing on time, you may reduce the overall cost of being unable to pay your balance in full.