Overview

Paying taxes online is now the standard for most taxpayers. The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) is the U.S. Treasury’s long‑running, no‑fee option for federal tax payments; other choices include IRS Direct Pay (individuals), third‑party card processors, and state tax portals. Electronic payments reduce mailing delays, provide digital receipts, and make it easier to schedule recurring or estimated payments (IRS — Payments: https://www.irs.gov/payments).

How EFTPS works (what to expect)

  • Enrollment: Register at the EFTPS site or by phone. The system requires your Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN or EIN) and bank routing/account numbers. The Treasury typically issues a mailed PIN as part of enrollment—plan on several business days before you can make your first payment (EFTPS: https://www.eftps.gov/).
  • Scheduling: Once enrolled, you can schedule payments in advance and view payment history. EFTPS does not charge fees for federal tax payments.
  • Timing: EFTPS payments post according to the schedule you set. To avoid late‑payment issues, schedule payments at least one business day before due dates; some taxpayers set payments earlier to allow bank processing and avoid weekends/holidays.

Other electronic payment methods

  • IRS Direct Pay: A free option for eligible individual tax payments funded directly from a checking or savings account. It’s designed for individual income tax payments, not business federal tax deposits (IRS — Payments).
  • Card payments: Many taxpayers pay by credit or debit card through IRS‑approved third‑party processors. These processors charge convenience fees; the IRS does not collect card fees (compare processors and fees before choosing). See CFPB guidance on card use for fees and chargeback risk (https://www.consumerfinance.gov/).
  • ACH debit/credit through payroll or tax software: Some payroll services and tax software initiate electronic funds transfers for employers and some business tax deposits.
  • State and local portals: States use their own systems; check your state’s department of revenue for options and fees.

Security and recordkeeping

Keep screenshots or PDFs of confirmation pages and save EFTPS/IRS confirmation numbers. EFTPS and IRS Direct Pay use strong encryption, but always access sites directly (type the URL) and avoid public Wi‑Fi when submitting payments. Retain records at least three years, or longer if you have complex returns or audits (IRS recordkeeping guidance: https://www.irs.gov/).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

  • Waiting until the last minute: Schedule payments early and confirm the scheduled date in the portal.
  • Skipping confirmation: Always save the confirmation number and transaction record.
  • Using the wrong account or tax year: Double‑check account numbers, the tax form/type, and tax period before submitting.

Practical tips from practice

  • Enroll in EFTPS early if you make quarterly or large federal payments; the enrollment mail‑back PIN can take several business days.
  • Use EFTPS for predictable, large payments because it’s free and designed for federal tax deposits.
  • For one‑time individual payments, IRS Direct Pay is simple and fee‑free.

Quick FAQs

  • How long does EFTPS enrollment take? Enrollment requires verification and a mailed PIN; expect several business days before full access (EFTPS: https://www.eftps.gov/).
  • Can I pay federal and state taxes in one place? Not usually; EFTPS handles federal taxes. Check your state revenue site for state payment portals.
  • Are online payments safer than mailing a check? Generally yes—electronic systems offer encryption and immediate confirmation, reducing lost‑mail risk.

Further reading and internal resources

Authoritative sources

Professional disclaimer

This entry is educational and not individualized tax advice. For guidance tailored to your situation, consult a qualified tax professional or CPA.