What to Do If You Owe Taxes and Can’t Pay Right Away

Tax season can be stressful, especially if you find out that you owe more taxes than you can pay right away. Don’t panic!

 You can take several steps to manage your tax bill and avoid severe penalties. At Taxes Made EZ, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you find the best solution.


1. File Your Tax Return on Time

Even if you can’t pay the total amount you owe, it’s crucial to file your tax return by the deadline. Filing on time will help you avoid the hefty failure-to-file penalty, typically 5 percent of your unpaid taxes for each month your return is late, up to a maximum of 25 percent.


2. Pay What You Can

Pay as much of your tax bill as possible by the due date. The more you pay now, the less interest and penalties you will accrue over time. If you can pay off a significant portion of the debt, it will reduce the overall financial burden.


3. Consider an Installment Agreement

If you can’t pay your taxes in full, the IRS offers installment agreements that allow you to pay off your debt over time. You can apply for an installment agreement online through the IRS website if you owe $50,000 or less in combined tax, penalties, and interest. You can make monthly payments if approved until the debt is fully paid off.


4. Explore an Offer in Compromise

An Offer in Compromise allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount you owe if you prove that paying the full amount would cause financial hardship. When evaluating an OIC, the IRS considers your ability to pay, income, expenses, and asset equity. This option can be complex and might require professional assistance to navigate successfully.


5. Request a Short-Term Extension

Sometimes, you might get a short-term extension to pay your tax bill. The IRS may grant you up to 180 days to pay in full. While this option doesn’t reduce the amount you owe, it can give you some breathing room to gather the necessary funds.


6. Use a Credit Card or Loan

While using credit to pay your taxes is not always advisable, it can be an option if you can’t arrange other payment methods. Paying with a credit card or taking out a personal loan might help you avoid penalties and interest from the IRS, but keep in mind that you’ll incur interest and fees from your credit card or loan.


7. Seek Professional Help

If you’re unsure about the best course of action or need assistance negotiating with the IRS, consider seeking help from a tax professional. At Taxes Made EZ, our experienced team can provide personalized advice and help you explore all available options to manage your tax debt effectively.



Owing taxes you can’t pay right away can be daunting, but you have options. You can manage your tax bill and avoid severe penalties by taking proactive steps. Remember, the key is to act quickly and seek help if needed. At Taxes Made EZ, we’re here to support you through every step of the process. Contact us today for expert guidance and personalized solutions.

Contact us today at (856) 232-0958 or schedule a call today .


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