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Managing taxes can feel like a chore. Tax deadlines, payments, and recordkeeping often fall to the bottom of a busy to-do list. If you haven’t already tried the IRS Online Account, it’s a handy tool that simplifies some of this workload, helping you stay on track without the extra stress.
The IRS Online Account lets you access past records, manage payments, and stay organized. It’s not the be-all, end-all solution to your finances, but it offers features that make managing your tax responsibilities a lot more efficient. Here’s how it works and how SME CPAs can help you make the most of it.
What is the IRS Online Account?
The IRS Online Account is like online banking but for your taxes. It lets you securely check your tax info, make payments, and handle notices, audits, or questions from the IRS—all online. It’s free to set up, easy to use, and available 24/7 on any device with internet.
Tip: The IRS Online Account is designed for individuals. If you want access for your business, you will need an IRS Business Tax Account.
How Does it Work?
To set up an IRS Online Account, you will need to create an account via the IRS website. If you already have an online account with the IRS, you can use your existing login to access it. Once registered, you will be able to find and download past filings, payment activity, account balances, notices, tax records, and more.
Why Should I Use the IRS Online Account?
Here are the top three reasons we suggest all of our clients take advantage of their IRS Online Accounts.
Take Control of Your Tax Records
Your IRS Online Account helps keep your information easy to access. Need to reference last year’s return? Want to double-check your deductions for a loan application? This tool makes it easy to pull up past filings and key details whenever you need them.
From your account, you can access:
- Details from your most recent tax return
- Wage and income records
- Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement
- Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement
- Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation
- And more.
For self-employed individuals especially, this kind of accessibility can be a relief when you’re planning quarterly payments, preparing for tax season, or responding to an audit.
Manage Payments All in One Place
If managing tax payments has always been a headache, the IRS Online Account offers a solution. This tool lets you check balances, manage payment plans, and even make secure payments online.
The standout benefit is that payments are updated in real-time, so you’ll always have an accurate view of where your tax liabilities stand. For anyone who’s dealt with the stress of missed tax deadlines or late payments, this system offers a clear way to stay on top of things. No more mailing checks and waiting for them to clear.
Sign Tax Forms Online
Another handy feature of the IRS Online Account is the ability to sign tax forms electronically. If you need to assign power of attorney or approve tax information authorizations from your tax professional, you can do it right from your account. There’s no need to print, mail, or scan paperwork—just sign and submit online.
This can save you a lot of time and back-and-forth, especially if you’re working with tax professionals.
How SME CPAs Can Help You Succeed
While the IRS Online Account is a great tool, it’s just one part of a solid financial plan. At SME CPAs, our goal is to make taxes and financial tasks easier for everyone—whether you’re an individual, a family, or running a business.
We’re here to answer your questions, help you understand changes to tax regulations, and create simple strategies that fit your needs and goals. With our experience and support, staying on top of your finances doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
Trust SME CPAs for Tax Planning and Prep
Taxes don’t have to be a source of stress. The IRS Online Account helps you stay organized, and SME CPAs is here to guide you through the rest. We combine decades of expertise with personalized strategies to help you stay compliant, organized, and confident in your financial decisions.
If you’re ready to simplify your tax responsibilities and get back to focusing on what you do best, contact us today and we’ll build a tax plan that works for you.