 TITLE: Here’s What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes CONTENT: Ways to Get Tax Relief\n----------------------\nThe most important thing to remember about having trouble paying taxes is that you're not on your own. The IRS has multiple programs in place to help, and many others before you have taken advantage of them. It's worth it to reach out for assistance if you need it. You can discuss your payment options with the IRS by calling 800-829-1040. Here are some examples of what's available:\n*   **Payment extension**: You can get up to 120 days to pay in full by agreeing to a \"full payment agreement\" with the IRS. Penalties and fees will continue to add up. Some taxpayers can get an extension of up to 180 days.\n*   **IRS installment agreement**: The IRS offers monthly payment arrangements if you're unable to pay your full bill by the deadline, or within 120 days. You can pay by direct debit, credit card, payroll deduction or a number of other methods, depending on the balance owed. You'll pay a user fee for entering a payment plan, but if your income falls beneath certain thresholds, you may be exempt from the fee. The amount you must pay to set up the plan also depends on whether it's a long-term or short-term payment agreement.\n*   **Offer in compromise**: If you'd like to enter an installment agreement but cannot afford to pay your tax bill in full, you can coordinate with the IRS to pay less than you owe—by a certain deadline. This arrangement is called an offer in compromise or partial payment installment agreement. You must be up to date on all filing deadlines to qualify for an offer in compromise; you can check if you meet the requirements online.\n*   **Penalty relief**: If it's your first time not being able to meet your tax obligations, you can apply for a first-time penalty abatement, which can eliminate penalties for failing to file or failing to pay on time.\n*   **Temporary collection relief**: If you can't currently pay your taxes due to a demonstrable financial hardship, you can arrange with the IRS to temporarily delay collection of the debt. Penalties and interest will continue to accrue. END