
The IRS has some strict rules when it comes to paying taxes, and one of the most common questions is whether they accept credit card payments.
The answer is no, the IRS does not accept credit card payments for taxes. This is because the IRS is prohibited by law from charging interest or fees on tax payments, and credit card companies would need to be paid for their services.
However, there are some third-party services that can help you pay your taxes with a credit card. These services are not affiliated with the IRS, but they can process your credit card payment and send the funds to the IRS on your behalf.
On a similar theme: Samsung Wallet Not Working
Fees and Charges
You'll pay processing fees when using a credit card to pay your federal tax bill, with fees ranging from 1.75% to 2.89% depending on the payment processor and your card type.
The IRS uses Pay1040 and ACI Payments, Inc. to process credit card payments, and the fee is calculated as a percentage of the amount paid.
On a similar theme: Bofa Wire Fees

If you owe $10,000 and want to pay via credit card, you'll be on the hook for an extra $185 to $289 in fees, depending on the service you use.
Pay1040 shows a 1.75% fee on the IRS.gov website, but some card issuers like American Express charge a higher fee of 2.89%.
ACI Payments, Inc. does not accept business cards when used to pay personal taxes, so if you want to use a business credit card, it's best to use ACI Payments Inc.
The processing fee for using a business credit card or Amex card with ACI Payments, Inc. is 1.85%.
Fees for paying taxes with a credit card vary depending on the specific tax and payment processor you use, with some services charging a convenience fee of 2.49% and others charging 1.82%.
It's essential to confirm specific fees with your local tax collector and the payment processor you'll be using before making a payment.
Here's an interesting read: Federal Tax Payments Credit Card
Alternatives to Credit Cards

If you're looking for alternatives to credit cards, you have several options. One option is to use debit cards, which are linked directly to your checking account and can be used for online and in-person transactions.
You can also consider using digital payment methods like PayPal, which can be linked to your bank account or credit card. This can be a good option for online transactions, especially for small businesses.
Another alternative is to use cash or checks, which can be a good option for in-person transactions or for those who prefer to avoid online payments altogether.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Venmo Business Transaction
Alternatives
If you're looking for alternatives to credit cards, consider using a debit card, which can be linked to your checking account and used for everyday purchases.
You can also use a prepaid card, which allows you to load a specific amount of money onto the card and use it for purchases.
Some people prefer to use cash, which can be used for small purchases and can help you stick to a budget.
Another option is a credit union loan, which can provide a more affordable alternative to credit card debt.
Can You?

You might be wondering if there are any situations where paying taxes with a credit card makes sense. The short answer is yes, but it's not always the best option. You can pay taxes with a credit card if you need more time to pay your taxes, and a 0% APR offer can help you buy some extra time.
You can also use a credit card to pay taxes if you have a large minimum spend requirement to meet to earn a welcome bonus. If your card has a large spending requirement, paying taxes with a credit card can help you meet it and earn a lucrative points deal later on.
Some states also allow you to pay state taxes with a credit card, but the payment requirements and fees vary depending on the state. For example, you can use the website OfficialPayments.com to pay state income taxes, but not business taxes.
A different take: Online Real Time Bill Payment

Here are some scenarios where paying taxes with a credit card might make sense:
- You need more time to pay your taxes and have a 0% APR offer to utilize.
- You have a card paying 2% or more in rewards and can break even with most of the services that handle credit card payments and associated credit card processing fees.
- You have a large minimum spend requirement to meet to earn a welcome bonus.
- You're close to earning other spending-based cardholder perks.
Keep in mind that fees will vary depending on the situation, and it's essential to consider all the costs before making a decision.
Payment Processing
You'll need to pay processing fees when paying your federal tax bill with a credit card. These fees are charged by payment processors ACI Payment, Inc., Pay1040, or payUSAtax.
The good news is that debit card fees are typically flat and lower than credit card fees. In fact, even debit card payments require a fee, but it's usually a smaller amount.
To make a credit card payment over the phone, you'll need to call one of the dedicated lines for each payment processor. Here are the phone numbers you'll need to dial:
- PayUSAtax: 844-729-8298
- Pay1040: 888-729-1040
- ACI Payments: 888-272-9829
Make sure you have your credit card and tax return information handy when you call.
By Phone
If you'd rather make your payment by phone, you can use one of the three card processors listed below.
You'll need to have your credit card and tax return information on hand when you call.
To make a payment, simply dial the dedicated line for the card processor you're using: PayUSAtax: 844-729-8298Pay1040: 888-729-1040ACI Payments: 888-272-9829
Extra Time

You can get extra time to pay your taxes by paying with a credit card and choosing the right statement period. This can give you up to 30 days until your statement closes and nearly 60 days until you must pay off your balance in full.
Some credit cards offer 0% APR for an introductory period on new purchases, which can provide 12 to 18 months of interest-free payments on your tax bill. You'll need to pay off the entire balance in full before the promotional period ends.
Check your credit card issuer for a pay-over-time installment plan, as they sometimes offer introductory offers. This can be a great way to finance a large tax bill over time without incurring massive interest charges.
Recommended read: How Do I Use Venmo for the First Time
Benefits and Considerations
Paying your taxes with a credit card can be a convenient option, but it's essential to consider the benefits and potential drawbacks.
Making a tax payment with a credit card may offer several benefits, provided you can responsibly manage your credit card balance. You can earn rewards, such as cashback or points, which can be redeemed for future expenses.
Expand your knowledge: Bank of America Credit Card Benefits Guide

Some credit cards also offer special benefits for tax payments, such as avoiding interest on your tax bill for a year or longer. However, it's crucial to choose the right card with which to do so.
To make the most of paying your taxes with a credit card, consider the following details:
Benefits of Tax
Making a tax payment with a credit card can offer several benefits, provided you can responsibly manage your credit card balance. This method can be a convenient way to pay your taxes, especially if you're trying to avoid a large upfront payment.
The IRS has made it easy to pay federal taxes with a credit card, and it's even authorized three specific companies to process these payments for you.
You can pay your federal taxes with a credit card online, but there are some limitations to be aware of. Tax payments over $100,000 may require special processing and must be done over the phone instead of online.
For your interest: Federal Reserve Bank Supervision

There are also limits to how often you can pay different types of tax payments with a credit card, so be sure to check the IRS guidelines before making a payment. Employer’s federal tax deposits cannot be paid with a credit card, so keep that in mind if you're responsible for making these payments.
Intriguing read: Why Do Banks Take so Long to Process Payments
Weighing Your Options
Paying your taxes can be a complex and time-consuming process, but there are a few things to consider when deciding how to pay your federal tax bill.
You can pay your federal tax bill with a credit card, but you'll need to do it through one of the three authorized companies the IRS has partnered with.
Paying with a credit card can be a good option if you have a large tax bill or if you're short on cash.
If you have a tax bill over $100,000, you'll need to process the payment over the phone instead of online.
Consider reading: Federal Reserve Bank Lending

To avoid processing fees and potential interest, it's a good idea to pay your taxes with cash from your bank account if possible.
Some credit cards offer rewards and cashback, which can be a great way to earn money back on your tax payments.
The Discover it Cards, including Chrome, Miles, Secured, and Student Cards, offer a unique feature: no late fee.
However, not all credit cards are created equal, and you'll want to choose one that aligns with your financial goals and needs.
Here are some key differences to consider when weighing your options:
Bottom Line
Paying your taxes with a credit card can be a lucrative way to earn points and miles as part of a large welcome offer. This can be especially beneficial if you have a 0% APR card, giving you more time to pay off a higher tax balance without worrying about high credit card interest rates.
Make sure you do your own math to ensure the benefits you receive are worth the cost. The last thing you want is to be stuck paying back your taxes on top of sky-high credit card interest.
Expand your knowledge: How Long after Paying off Credit Cards Does Credit Improve

However, the idea of paying off taxes with a credit card is not without risks. You need to be careful about tracking hidden fees, unexpected charges, or late penalties, which can add up quickly.
To make this strategy work, it's essential to do the right research and weigh the pros and cons with enough information. This way, you can stay on top of payment deadlines and avoid automatic fees that can negate any benefits.
Payment Options
The IRS accepts credit card payments, but you'll need to go through a third-party payment processor. These companies can add their own fees to your payments, so be sure to check the fees before making a payment.
You can pay your taxes with a debit card, but you won't earn valuable travel rewards or cash back unless you have a specific card like the Amex Rewards Checking debit card. This card earns 1 point for every $2 spent on eligible debit card purchases.
A unique perspective: Bofa More Rewards Day

The IRS website lists several third-party payment processors that you can use to pay your taxes with a credit card. These processors include payUSAtax, Pay1040, and ACI Payments. Each processor has its own fees, ranging from 1.85% to 1.98% of the payment amount.
Here are the fees for each processor:
You can also make a direct payment from your bank account, and the IRS won't charge any extra fees for this type of payment.
Federal Tax Payments
You can pay federal taxes with a credit card, but there are some important details to keep in mind. The IRS has authorized three specific companies to process credit card payments for federal taxes.
The IRS website has links to these three processors: payUSAtax, Pay1040, and ACI Payment Inc. Each of these processors charges a fee, ranging from 1.85% to 1.98% of the payment amount.
To pay federal taxes with a credit card, you'll need to select which kind of tax payment you're making and choose the tax form associated with your payment. You'll also need to enter your taxpayer information, including your name, Social Security Number or ITIN, date of birth, and address.

The IRS imposes limits on the number of payments you can make via credit card. Individuals filing a Form 1040 can make two payments per year for current taxes. This limit is enforced per processor, so you can make up to six payments across all three processors.
Here are the three authorized payment processors and their fees:
If you pay estimated taxes, you can make an additional two payments per processor per quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to pay the IRS?
The best way to pay the IRS is through a bank transfer, which is free and convenient. However, other payment options like credit cards and cash payments may incur additional fees.
What payment methods are accepted by the IRS?
The IRS accepts electronic funds withdrawal from a bank account, as well as payments made through credit cards, debit cards, and digital wallets, with processing fees applying to the latter options. You can choose the payment method that suits you best.
Sources
- https://www.discover.com/credit-cards/card-smarts/can-you-pay-taxes-with-credit-card/
- https://thepointsguy.com/credit-cards/paying-taxes-credit-card/
- https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/how-to-pay-your-taxes-with-a-credit-card/
- https://www.bankrate.com/credit-cards/advice/how-to-pay-taxes-with-debit-or-credit-card/
- https://www.wsj.com/buyside/personal-finance/taxes/can-you-pay-taxes-with-a-credit-card
Featured Images: pexels.com