How to Navigate Your Online IRS Account (For Individuals)

Managing your taxes has become much easier thanks to the IRS Online Account portal. Whether you need to make a payment, download a transcript, or retrieve your Identity Protection PIN, everything is now available in one secure place.

This guide walks you through the essential features so you can quickly find what you need.

Step 1: Log In to Your IRS Online Account

Visit the IRS Online Account page here:
Online Account for Individuals – IRS.gov

You’ll need to sign in using your ID.me or Login.gov credentials. You may have already set up these credentials if you have an online account with the Social Security Administration. If you haven't created an account yet, the website will guide you through identity verification - you will need your driver's license and a mobile phone to set it up.

Step 2: What Do You Need to Do?

Once logged in, your IRS dashboard allows you to access several important tools. Below is a breakdown of the most commonly used features.

How to Make a Payment

From your homepage:

1. Select “Make a Payment” in the bottom-left corner.

2. Choose the type of payment you need to make.
   

For a balance due payment:

• Select the tax year

• Choose Income Tax
  
  

For estimated tax payments:

Make the following selections:

• Reason for Payment: Estimated Tax

• Apply Payment To: Appropriate Tax Year

• Form: 1040-ES

These payments post immediately to your IRS account.

How to Get a Transcript

Transcripts are often needed for tax prep, loans, income verification, and more.

In your online account:

1. Go to “Get Transcript”

2. Choose the tax year

1. Select the transcript type you need:

• Account Transcript

• Return Transcript

• Wage & Income Transcript

• Record of Account Transcript

You can view or download them instantly.

How to Retrieve Your IP PIN

If the IRS assigned you an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) and you don’t have the mailed copy:

1. Click your Profile button (top right).

2. Look for the IP PIN section.

3. Your active PIN will appear, and you may download it if needed.

Final Tips

• Your IRS online account updates daily, so it's a reliable way to check balances, notices, and payment history.

• Always log out after using the portal - your data is sensitive.

• Keep your login credentials secure or store them in a password manager.