Some taxpayers experience a double-whammy on April 15th. In addition to it being the due date for the prior year’s 1040 (or extension), it is also the due date for the first estimate of the 2015 tax.

What happens if you owe money for either the prior year or the estimate, but cannot make it to the post office?

One option is to use the IRS’ Direct Pay system.

Using Direct Pay allows the government to withdraw the money from either your checking or savings account at no cost to you. The system also gives you a instant confirmation that the tax payment has been submitted.

One additional benefit for extension filers: choose ‘Extension’ as the reason for the payment your return will be automatically extended – no need to file Form 4868.

It only takes 5 steps to use Direct Pay.

1. Provide your tax information
2. Verify your identity
3. Enter your payment information
4. Review and electronically sign the transaction
5. Print or record your online confirmation number

Disclosure

We inform you that any tax advice provided or implied on this post (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer.

While the information contained in this post is believed to be reliable, we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness.