Where to log in to your IRS payment plan

The IRS does not have a single login portal for payment plans. Instead, you access your account through IRS Online Account, which is part of IRS.gov. This is where you can view your balance, see payment history, and manage an existing installment agreement.

To reach it, go to IRS.gov, select "Sign in" in the upper right, and choose from three login methods: an IRS Online Account username and password, a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number with a self-selected PIN, or Login.gov credentials. You do not need to create a separate account for your payment plan — it appears automatically once you are logged into your tax account.

If you do not have an IRS Online Account yet, you can create one on IRS.gov by selecting "Create an account" and following the identity verification steps. The IRS will confirm your identity using information from your tax return and credit report.

Key Takeaways

  • IRS Online Account on IRS.gov is where you view and manage your payment plan, not a separate login system.
  • You can log in using an IRS Online Account username and password, a Social Security number with a PIN, or Login.gov credentials.
  • Your payment plan details appear in your account once you are approved and logged in — you do not need to enter a separate plan number.
  • If you cannot remember your password or cannot log in, use the "Forgot username or password?" link on IRS.gov to reset it.
  • The IRS also allows you to manage payments by phone at 1-800-829-1040 or through an authorized payment processor if online access is not available to you.

What you can see once you are logged in

Your IRS Online Account shows your current tax balance, the amount of your monthly payment, and the due date. You can also see a history of payments you have already made and the remaining balance on your plan.

The account displays your payment plan type — whether it is a short-term extension, a standard installment agreement, or another arrangement — and the original agreement date. If your plan has changed or if the IRS has adjusted your balance, that information appears here as well.

You cannot change the terms of your plan through the online account. To modify your payment amount, extend your plan, or request a different arrangement, you will need to contact the IRS directly by phone or mail.

How to make a payment through your account

Once logged in, you can make a one-time payment toward your plan using IRS Direct Pay, which is a free service that deducts money directly from your bank account. Select "Make a Payment" or "Pay Now" in your account, choose Direct Pay, and enter your bank routing and account numbers.

You can schedule the payment for today or up to 120 days in the future. The IRS will send you a confirmation number immediately and a receipt by email within one business day. Direct Pay does not charge a fee, and the money is withdrawn on the date you select.

If you prefer not to use Direct Pay, you can also pay through an authorized payment processor — the IRS lists these on IRS.gov under payment options. These processors charge a convenience fee, which varies by company. You can also pay by mail by sending a check to the address shown in your account.

Troubleshooting login problems

If you forget your password, select "Forgot username or password?" on the IRS.gov login page. The IRS will ask you to verify your identity using information from your tax return, then send you a reset link by email.

If you cannot verify your identity online, you can reset your password by calling 1-800-829-1040 and speaking with an IRS representative. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a copy of your most recent tax return available.

If you see an error message saying your account is locked or temporarily unavailable, wait 24 hours and try again. The IRS locks accounts after multiple failed login attempts as a security measure. If the problem continues after 24 hours, call 1-800-829-1040 for help.

When you cannot access your account online

Not every taxpayer can create an IRS Online Account. If the IRS cannot verify your identity through its online system, you will not be able to set up an account. This sometimes happens if you have a recent address change, a credit freeze, or if your Social Security number has been flagged for fraud.

In these cases, you can still manage your payment plan by phone. Call 1-800-829-1040 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time) and speak with a representative. They can tell you your balance, accept a payment over the phone, or discuss changes to your plan.

You can also mail a check or money order to the IRS address shown on your payment plan notice. Include your name, Social Security number, and tax year on the check, and mail it to the address listed in your notice or on IRS.gov.

Understanding your payment plan notice

When the IRS approves your payment plan, they send you a notice by mail that includes your agreement number, monthly payment amount, due date, and the address to send payments. Keep this notice — you will need the agreement number if you call the IRS or if you need to make changes to your plan.

The notice also explains what happens if you miss a payment. Most plans allow a brief grace period, but if you miss two payments in a row, the IRS may terminate your agreement and demand full payment of the remaining balance.

If your circumstances change — your income drops, you lose a job, or you receive a large refund — you can request a modification to your plan. Contact the IRS by phone or mail with your agreement number and an explanation of the change. The IRS will review your request and may lower your payment amount or extend your plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to log in to make a payment on my plan?

No. You can make a payment without logging in by using IRS Direct Pay on IRS.gov, paying through an authorized processor, or mailing a check. Logging in is useful if you want to see your balance and payment history, but it is not required to pay.

What if I set up my payment plan by phone and do not have an account yet?

You can create an IRS Online Account after your plan is approved. It usually takes a few days for your plan to appear in the system after approval. Once it does, log in and your plan details will be there automatically.

Can I change my payment amount through my online account?

No. You can view your payment amount in your account, but you cannot change it online. To modify your payment, call 1-800-829-1040 or send a written request to the IRS address on your payment plan notice.

Is IRS Online Account the same as my tax return filing account?

Yes. IRS Online Account is a single account that shows your tax return information, your current balance, and any payment plans you have set up. You log in once and see everything related to your account with the IRS.

What should I do if I think my account has been hacked?

Change your password immediately and call 1-800-829-1040 to report the issue. The IRS can review your account for unauthorized activity and help you secure it. If you see payments you did not make, report them right away.