Introduction

Your IRS Online Account lets you view your current balance, payment history, transcripts, and recent tax returns, and it provides tools to make payments or manage payment plans. Using it regularly reduces surprise notices and speeds problem resolution. In my practice, clients who check their IRS account quarterly avoid late-payment penalties and spot issues early.

Step-by-step walkthrough

  1. Prepare before you start
  • Have your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), filing status, and a recent tax filing handy. The IRS uses information from prior returns to verify identity (IRS: https://www.irs.gov/account).
  • Use a personal computer or the IRS mobile-friendly pages; public Wi‑Fi and shared devices increase risk.
  1. Create or sign in to your account
  • Go to the IRS Online Account page and choose “Sign in to your account” or “Create account.” Follow the guided prompts to enter identifying details (IRS: https://www.irs.gov/account).
  • Expect multi-step identity verification. The IRS may request a code sent to your phone or email, photo ID, or answers to knowledge-based questions.
  1. Complete identity verification securely
  • Follow the verification prompts exactly. If the system requests a photo ID or selfie, do this only from your private device. If verification fails, wait 24 hours before retrying to avoid temporary lockouts.
  1. Explore the dashboard (what you’ll find)
  • Account balance and payment history: see outstanding balances, when payments posted, and recent refunds.
  • Tax records and transcripts: download account transcripts and wage (W-2) information for loans or verification (see “read your IRS account transcript” below).
  • Payment options and plans: pay online, schedule payments, or apply for an installment agreement (IRS payments: https://www.irs.gov/payments).
  1. Make payments or manage plans
  • Choose the payment method offered (bank transfer, debit/credit, or other IRS-supported services). Some payment processors charge fees; check totals before submitting.
  • If you owe more than you can pay now, apply for an installment agreement directly through the account.
  1. Download and archive records
  • Save PDFs of returns, payment confirmations, and transcripts. Keep copies in your secure personal records for at least three years.

Key security practices

  • Use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication when available.
  • Never share verification codes. The IRS never asks for login credentials or full SSNs by phone or email.
  • If you suspect fraud or identity theft, follow IRS guidance and consider placing a credit freeze with the major bureaus (IRS ID theft resources: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/identity-theft).

Troubleshooting common issues

  • Unable to verify identity: review the input for typos and try different recent tax-year data. If repeated failures occur, use the IRS help pages or the automated support options linked on the sign-in page (IRS: https://www.irs.gov/account).
  • Locked out after multiple attempts: wait the specified lockout period or follow the account recovery prompts.
  • Don’t see expected documents: the IRS typically displays recent years’ information; if older records are missing, request transcripts or contact a tax preparer for copies.

When to get professional help

If you see unexpected balances, unfamiliar payments, or notices in your account, consider contacting a tax professional. For guidance on when to escalate or hire representation, see our article on when to seek professional help after receiving an IRS notice (FinHelp: https://finhelp.io/glossary/when-to-seek-professional-help-after-receiving-an-irs-notice/).

Related reading on FinHelp

Professional tips I use with clients

  • Check your IRS Online Account at least once a quarter, and always after filing or paying taxes.
  • Archive PDF copies right away—some evidence is available online for limited time windows.
  • Use your account history as the first place to confirm refund offsets or payment posting before calling the IRS.

Authoritative sources

Disclaimer

This article is educational and not individualized tax advice. For help tailored to your situation, consult a qualified tax professional or the IRS. The steps and features described are current as of 2025 but may change with IRS updates.