In a nutshell: American taxpayers can apply for an IRS installment plan online. Follow steps including photo ID, an ID.me account, smartphone, and banking info for direct debit
Individual American taxpayers who want to apply for an installment plan with the IRS can do so via its website. It may seem overwhelming, but informing yourself about the proper steps can help simplify the process.
Photo identification
An account with ID.me
Smartphone
Banking information (if opting for direct debit)
From your smartphone, go to the "Apply online for a payment plan" page on the IRS website.
If you're applying for an individual installment plan for yourself with the IRS, there are three primary sections you'll want to review on this page. They are "Do you qualify?," "What do you need to apply for a payment plan?," and "What does it cost?"
Each of the three previously mentioned sections have a "+" to the left of them. Click on each "+" to expand each section and thoroughly review the information.
The "What do you need to apply for a payment plan" section explains that you'll need an ID.me account. You can either create one ahead of time or do it when you're prompted to.
On the "Apply online for a payment plan" page, there's a blue button with white lettering about halfway down that states, "Apply/Revise as Individual."
Click on the "Apply/Revise as Individual" button to move forward with the process. If you're opting for direct debit, you'll need to provide your banking information.
If you need assistance with setting up the individual payment plan for yourself or have any questions, call the IRS for assistance.
The IRS website makes it easy to apply for an individual installment plan should you need to do so. Follow the step-by-step instructions on its website to get started with the process.
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