Get help with tax debt

If you owe a tax debt that you can't pay in full, we can help. You have options to resolve it.

Find tax debt help

Use this tool to find options that work for you

Answer a few questions to find your options to resolve a tax debt.

Options to manage tax debt

Make a payment

Pay what you can, then consider other options here.

Make a payment

Payment plans

Pay over time with a short or long-term payment plan.

About payment plans

Offer in compromise (OIC)

Settle your tax debt for less than you owe, if you qualify.

About OIC

Delay collection

If you can't pay now, you may qualify for a temporary delay.

About collection delay

Penalty relief

Request relief from penalties if you qualify.

About penalty relief

Other help

Check if you qualify for relief if you're affected by:

Help topics

QR code on your notice
If your notice has a QR code, scan it to find information you need to take care of your account.

Phone
Call the phone number on your notice. Or contact 800-829-1040 for individuals or 800-829-4933 for businesses. You may be offered a call-back option.

In-person help
Make an appointment at a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

Taxpayer Advocate Service
The Taxpayer Advocate Service is an independent organization within the IRS. The service protects your rights as a taxpayer, helps you resolve problems with the IRS and recommends changes that will prevent problems.

Third-party authorization
You can authorize someone to contact the IRS with you or on your behalf.

Most payment plans and relief options require that all tax returns are filed.

Here's what to know:

  • You don't need to pay the full amount right away to file
  • The first step toward resolving a tax debt is to file missing returns
  • You'll qualify for more options once you file

File a past due tax return

Call us at the number on your notice. Or visit your local IRS office.

Consider an appeal if you want to dispute or protest taxes and penalties.

You can view your balance, payment history and transcripts in your online account.

If you're in bankruptcy, contact us about your payment options at 800-973-0424. We’re available Monday to Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Eastern time. Have your bankruptcy case number available.

Some payment options may not be available until the bankruptcy is resolved.

About bankruptcy

You should pay taxes as you earn or receive income during the year.

If you're an employee
Estimate your tax withholding. You can avoid an unexpected tax bill by adjusting the amount of tax your employer withholds from your paycheck.

If you earn income from other sources
Pay estimated tax on any taxable income you receive during the year. This includes income from a business, self-employment or gig work. It also includes income from interest, dividends, alimony, capital gains or prizes and awards. Paying estimated tax can help you avoid a large bill.

If you employ people
Deposit and report employment taxes.

You can protect yourself from scammers. Know what to look for.

Recognize tax scams

How to know it's the IRS

If you were scammed