Amelia Grant

Writing a check was once the sole option to pay the IRS if you owed money at tax time. There are numerous solutions available now.

EFW, or electronic funds withdrawal, is a term common to taxpayers who utilize guided tax preparation software like Free File. Most software has this payment option, which allows you to submit a payment directly from your bank account when filing your return.

If you want to pay your tax bill in another way, the IRS recommends using an online tax payment method, such as Direct Pay, EFTPS, or a credit/debit card, rather than mailing it. However, there are a few more payment choices available, including same-day transfers and cash.

1. IRS Direct Pay
IRS Direct Pay is one of the most straightforward and cost-effective ways to pay a tax bill. You can use the IRS Direct Pay website to use the free service and make a payment immediately from your checking or savings account. You can also change or cancel a payment up to two business days before it is due.

You do not need to register with the agency to utilize the service, but you must authenticate your identity before making a payment. To validate that you are who you say you are, the Direct Pay website will request your address, Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status from a prior-year tax return.

Direct Pay is available to taxpayers from midnight to 11:45 p.m. EST Monday through Saturday, and from 7 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. EST on Sunday.

Cost: Free.

2. Cash
Whether you believe it or not, you may be able to pay your taxes in cash. To begin, go to the   IRS’s Pay with Cash at a Retail Partner website and follow the steps to make a cash IRS payment. You will receive an email confirming your information, and the IRS will verify it. You will receive a second email with a link to a payment barcode and further instructions. You next go to the retail store mentioned in the email, have the employee scan your code, and hand over your money. You will receive a receipt and payment confirmation.

Family Dollar, Dollar General, CVS Pharmacy, 7-Eleven, Walgreens, Go-Mart, Speedway, Kum & Go, Kwik Trip, and other select independent locations are among those taking part.

It should be noted that some local IRS offices may be able to take cash tax payments in person. Using the IRS' TAC lookup tool, you can find and view the services of a Taxpayer Assistance Center near you.

Payments range from $1.50 to $2.50.

3. Electronic funds withdrawal (EFW)
If you submit your federal taxes using IRS Free Submit or another tax-prep software, this e-pay capability is normally available immediately through the e-filing program. You'll enter your banking details to approve a direct debit withdrawal to make a payment. If the preparer e-files on your behalf, you can also ask a human tax preparer to submit your payment using EFW.

It is free. However, check with your bank for any connected fees.

4. The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)
EFTPS is another online payment facility provided by the IRS. In contrast to Direct Pay, you must register to utilize it, which can take up to five to seven days, according to the IRS.

To enroll, visit the IRS EFTPS website, enter your identity and bank information, and then wait for your PIN to arrive in the mail. When you receive it, you will return to the website, create a password, and authorize an ACH transaction from your bank account.

With EFTPS, you can view up to 15 months of payment history, amend or plan future payments, and make a payment at any time – the phone and online payment service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You also have access to customer support representatives who can assist you with any payment issues that arise.

Cost: Free.

5. IRS payment plan or installment agreement
If you are unable to pay your tax bill in full when it is due, you can request an IRS payment plan. Short-term plans (for persons who can pay off the sum in 180 days or less) and long-term plans (for people who need more time) are available.

The cost ranges from $0 to $225, depending on the plan chosen, how you enroll, and whether you are a low-income taxpayer.