The IRS updated its payment plan page on March 3, 2026. A long plan paid by automatic debit now costs $29 online. A short plan of 180 days or less has no setup fee. Callers often ask about these numbers first.
October 30, 2026
Many leads ask the same first question. Can I just pay over time? The IRS answers part of it on its payment plan page, and that page changed this year.
A short term plan gives 180 days or less to pay in full. The setup fee is $0, online or by phone, mail or in person. Only individuals can apply for one online.
A long term plan, or installment agreement, is paid each month. The setup fee depends on how the plan is set up and paid.
Online with automatic debit, the fee is $29. By phone, mail or in person with automatic debit, it is $107. Online with other ways to pay, it is $69. By phone, mail or in person with other ways to pay, it is $178.
Low income taxpayers pay less. The IRS uses adjusted gross income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level. With automatic debit, the fee is waived. Without it, the fee is $43, and it may be paid back later.
The IRS also lists who may apply online. A long plan is open online to people who owe $50,000 or less and filed all required returns. A short plan is open to those who owe less than $100,000.
This matters for a firm. A caller with a small balance and all returns filed may set up a plan alone. Larger balances, unfiled years, levies and liens are where a pro adds the most.
Keep the call honest. Say what the IRS offers on its own site. Then explain what your firm does that the online tool does not.
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