Electronic Payment Screen

[mcbreck]

Do you guys utilize the electronic payment screen to pay state and federal taxes for clients? I've only done it a few times for estimates but my state won't allow it. I'm not sure I'm real comfortable instructing the IRS or State to withdraw payments for 1040 tax bills. Just wondering how often people use it.

[TaxmannEA]

We have a number of clients that pay this way. We've never had any significant problems with the federal, but have had some with the state in past years. This year it seems to be working OK.

[mcbreck]

I just did my first - I like it. Might start doing more. Really wish my state allowed us to do estimates that way.

[Randall]

I don't like to make payments for clients.  They're on their own.  If they want direct deposit for refunds, ok.  Some few want direct debit for payments and they give me the date to enter.  But I don't think I'm going any further than that.

[BrewOne]

I have more and more clients moving in this direction (or using Direct Pay at irs.gov).  The fewer checks they put in the mail, the better--serious problem in my area with stolen mail and check washing. 

And all refunds either rolled over or direct deposit.  I think I have one client this year who will be receiving a check.

[mcbreck]

2 hours ago, Randall said:

I don't like to make payments for clients.  They're on their own.  If they want direct deposit for refunds, ok.  Some few want direct debit for payments and they give me the date to enter.  But I don't think I'm going any further than that.

I'm a little uncomfortable with what liability I have if the payment doesn't get made.

[Catherine]

Many clients use this. My one warning is that partial payments do NOT work. They take the full tax due. If someone wants to make a partial payment, have them go to Direct Pay or the state site - or use checks and coupons.

[jklcpa]

I really don't want to be responsible for client's payments, but I had done it for one client for a few years that wanted it.

I also did it one time for the 2022 return for a long time older client who is so disorganized that the return wasn't filed until Nov of last year, and I knew that the balance due may not be made. I also have trouble getting him to bring me or send me the notices he receives. I strongly nudged him in the direction of allowing me to schedule the payment for him.