IRS.gov — Internal Revenue Service
Taxes & IRSFile taxes for free, check refund status, make payments, get tax transcripts, and manage your IRS account online.
Difficulty Level
More Complex — Consider getting help
Need Help? Call
1-800-829-1040Senior Tip
If your income is under $84,000, you can file federal taxes completely free through IRS Free File. VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) offers free in-person help.
How to Get Started
Go to irs.gov
Type irs.gov in your browser. Never click links in emails claiming to be from the IRS — the real IRS contacts you by mail.
Create an IRS Online Account
Click "Sign in to your Online Account." You'll verify your identity through ID.me with a photo ID and selfie.
Access your tax information
Your account shows payment history, tax records, estimated payments, and any amounts you owe.
File taxes or check refund
Use IRS Free File (irs.gov/freefile) to file, or "Where's My Refund?" to check status.
Common Tasks You Can Do Online
Check tax refund status
irs.gov/refunds > Enter SSN, filing status, and refund amount
File taxes for free
irs.gov/freefile > Choose a Free File partner > Start return
Make a tax payment
irs.gov/payments > Direct Pay > Enter bank info
Get a tax transcript
Online Account > Tax Records > Get Transcript
Find free tax help (VITA)
irs.gov/vita > Enter zip code > Find nearest location
Set up a payment plan
irs.gov/payments > Payment Plans > Apply Online
Troubleshooting
Refund is delayed▾
Most refunds arrive within 21 days if you e-filed. Paper returns take 6-8 weeks. Check "Where's My Refund?" daily.
ID.me verification is difficult▾
You can verify by video call with an ID.me agent. Have your photo ID ready and allow 15-30 minutes.
Got a scary letter from IRS▾
Don't panic. Real IRS letters come by mail (never email, text, or phone threats). Verify by calling 1-800-829-1040.
Can't afford to pay tax bill▾
Apply for a payment plan at irs.gov/payments. The IRS offers installment agreements for almost all amounts.
Accessibility & Phone Help
IRS.gov supports screen readers. Call 1-800-829-1040 (TTY: 1-800-829-4059) for phone help. VITA sites offer in-person assistance.
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Safety Reminder
Always check that the website address ends in .gov before entering personal information. Never share your Social Security number, Medicare number, or bank details in response to an unsolicited email, call, or text.