
The Internal Revenue Service confirmed that its online payment and e-file systems continue to operate normally as the filing season progresses. Both individual taxpayers and businesses can make secure federal tax payments through Direct Pay or e-file their returns using IRS-approved systems, with no reported service disruptions.
The IRS e-file system remains available to taxpayers and tax professionals for submitting current and prior-year federal tax returns. Electronic filing provides faster processing times, immediate confirmation of receipt, and fewer errors compared with mailing paper returns. The agency said all electronic filing services, including the Modernized e-File (MeF) system, remain stable and accessible around the clock.
According to the Internal Revenue Service, “E-file remains the most secure and efficient method for submitting federal tax returns.” The system accepts individual and business filings through authorized software providers or the IRS Direct File platform. Users can log in through their IRS online account to check the status of their return, view accepted filings, or download copies of submitted forms.
The agency reminded taxpayers to verify that they are using the official IRS website, noting that secure pages will display a locked padlock icon in the browser address bar. The official IRS page lists the latest “page last reviewed or updated” information for all e-file and online payment systems.
IRS Direct Pay continues to provide individuals and businesses with a free, no-registration option for paying federal tax balances directly from their financial institution accounts. The system operates Monday through Saturday from 12:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. Eastern Time and on Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. ET. Users can schedule payments up to two business days in advance and receive an email confirmation once the payment is complete.
The IRS recommends using the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) or same-day wire services for business tax payments exceeding $10 million. Direct Pay supports balance due, estimated tax, and extension payments. All transactions are processed through encrypted connections. “Taxpayers can securely make and manage payments through IRS Direct Pay,” the agency stated on its official Direct Pay Help page.
To ensure privacy, taxpayers must verify their identity using their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) before making a payment. The system allows users to change or cancel a scheduled payment up to two business days before the chosen date. If any errors occur, users can visit their online account to check the payment status or follow the correction steps listed on the IRS website.
Taxpayers can create or log in to their IRS online account to review payment history, confirm receipt of funds, or download IRS notices. The service also allows users to view upcoming payment due dates and any extensions that have been filed. Individuals and businesses can make payments directly from this account without incurring additional fees.
The IRS has upgraded its security systems to use ID.me verification for online services and professional e-Services access. This change adds an extra layer of protection against identity theft while maintaining user accessibility. The agency encourages taxpayers to look for the locked padlock icon and confirm they are on the correct site before entering their information.
IRS officials emphasized that these upgrades are part of ongoing modernization efforts aimed at improving reliability and maintaining compliance with federal cybersecurity standards. System performance updates and service windows are published regularly on the official Modernized e-File System Status page.
The IRS encourages taxpayers to continue using electronic filing and payment options for faster results and fewer delays. As the October extension due date approaches, individuals and businesses should verify their scheduled payments and confirm submission of all federal tax documents through their online accounts. Electronic services provide instant confirmation, reduced processing times, and easier access to records compared to mail submissions.
Individual taxpayers can use Direct Pay for balance due or estimated tax payments, while business users can manage large transactions through EFTPS or wire transfer. The agency advises confirming all payments at least two business days before the deadline to avoid penalties.
“The IRS remains committed to providing secure, reliable online services for all taxpayers,” the agency said in a recent statement. With both IRS e-file and Direct Pay systems fully operational, taxpayers can complete filings and payments with confidence as the filing season continues.