IRS Online Account
Free direct access to IRS records.
What you can do
- View tax records + balance.
- Make payments.
- Set up payment plan.
- Get transcripts free.
- Track refund.
- View past returns.
Setup process
- Go to IRS.gov.
- Click "Sign In to Your Account."
- Verify identity through ID.me.
- Photo ID + selfie required.
- 20–30 minute first-time setup.
- Use computer not phone (easier).
Get transcripts
- Often required for mortgage applications.
- For Medicare/Medicaid applications.
- Replace lost W-2s + 1099s.
- Free download anytime.
- Avoid mailing requests.
- Get last 10 years.
Payment plan
- If you owe taxes you can't pay.
- Set up online payment plan.
- Short-term (120 days) — no fee.
- Long-term — small fee.
- Stops collection actions.
- Avoids penalties stacking.
Watch for IRS scams
- IRS NEVER calls demanding payment.
- NEVER threatens arrest.
- NEVER asks for gift cards.
- Real IRS sends letters first.
- Always verify by calling IRS directly.
- 1-800-829-1040 is real number.
If you receive IRS letter
- Don't panic.
- Read carefully.
- Login to IRS.gov to verify.
- Most letters are simple.
- Respond by deadline.
- Get help from CPA or AARP Tax-Aide if confused.
Set up account now
Don't wait until you need it. Set up your IRS online account in low-stress times. Spend 30 minutes verifying identity through ID.me. Once active, you can access tax info anytime. Lost W-2s, transcript needs for mortgage, payment questions — all immediate access. Saves months of mail back-and-forth with IRS.