Cannot Pay IRS Tax Bill

How to request an installment agreement with the IRS?

If at the time a taxpayer files his or her tax return, he or she cannot pay his or her tax owed to the IRS in full, the taxpayer can:

• file the IRS tax form 9465 called the Installment Agreement Request, or
• write a written request for a payment plan and attach it to the tax return

What if I need a tax payment extension after I received a tax bill from the IRS?

If at the time of filing your tax return, you did not request a tax payment extension by way of written request or filing tax form 9565 and you did not pay your tax in full, the IRS will send you a bill. If at this time, you need to file for an extension for paying your tax, then you can:

• use the Online Payment Agreement or OPA application or
• submit the IRS tax form 9465, or
• make a written request for a payment plan
• visit the IRS office to sort out a payment plan

and then attach it to the front of your return or the IRS tax bill you received.

For the payment plan with the IRS, you need to specify:

• the amount you can pay, and
• the date (1st to 28th) you want to make your monthly payment
• for a direct debit installment agreement, checking account number and bank routing number
• a voided check may be stapled to the tax form 9465 if appropriate
• for a payroll deduction agreement, the tax form 2159 needs to be submitted and completed by the employer

Will the IRS approve my written request?

The IRS will respond to your request within 30 days to advise you whether:

• your request has been approved
• your request has been denied or
• they need more information from you