Free tool

IRS payment plan calculator

Enter what you owe and how long you'd like to pay. You'll see an estimated monthly payment, which plan you may qualify for, and roughly what interest and penalties add along the way.

Use the total from your latest IRS letter, including penalties and interest.

$
72 months

Most plans can run up to 72 months. Short-term plans are 180 days or less.

Adjust the assumptions
%

The IRS sets this rate every quarter. Check irs.gov for the current rate.

I filed my return on time

If you filed on time, the late-payment penalty drops to 0.25% a month while you're on a plan.

Your estimate shows up here.Start by entering how much you owe.

How this calculator works

InterestThe IRS charges interest on your unpaid balance until it's paid. We use the yearly rate above, spread monthly.
Late-payment penaltyWhile you're on a plan, it's 0.25% a month if you filed on time, or 0.5% if you didn't. It stops growing once it reaches 25% of the unpaid tax.
Plan typeBalances of $50,000 or less can usually be set up online without sharing your full finances. Larger balances usually need a financial statement.

This is an estimate for planning only. The IRS calculates interest daily and applies penalties to the unpaid tax, not the full balance, so your actual numbers will differ. Setup fees aren't included.

Common questions

What's the minimum monthly payment the IRS will accept?

For a streamlined plan, the payment generally needs to pay off the balance within 72 months, including what interest and penalties add. For larger balances, the IRS bases the payment on your income and expenses.

Is it better to choose a shorter plan?

If you can afford it, yes. A shorter plan means less interest and penalty overall. You can also pay extra any month without a penalty.

What if I can't afford the payment shown?

You may still have options, like a partial-pay plan, "currently not collectible" status, or an offer in compromise. Try our relief options quiz, or ask us.

Helpful reading