Integrated File and Pay (IFP) FAQs



Choose from the following Integrated File and Pay (IFP) Frequently Asked Questions.

​Note: This information is in regard to paying a balance due by Credit/Debit card through Drake Tax program BEFORE a tax return is filed. For information on making a payment by Credit/Debit card AFTER the tax return is filed, see the 1040paytax.com article in Related Links below.

Integrated File and Pay (IFP) is a fast and secure way to pay a tax due amount on a 1040 Individual return or 4868 Extension by credit or debit card when the return or extension is e-filed. The payment is authorized before the return is e-filed and is processed after the return is accepted. The payment process is easily initiated from within data entry on the tax return’s IFP screen (Miscellaneous tab).

IFP payments are not available for prior years or for amended 1040 returns. Payments for returns on extension can be made via credit card on www.1040paytax.com

IFP FAQs

Q: How many days do I have to transmit the return after a successful authorization of funds?
A: The processor can reverse the authorization in as few as 7 days if there is no activity, but will likely leave it open for 21 days. If the return is not accepted or rejected within 21 days, the authorization is, in effect, cancelled, and reauthorization would be required. The return must be e-filed and accepted within 21 days of card authorization in order to complete the payment transaction. To ensure smooth processing, e-file the return within 7 days of card authorization.

Q: What happens if the return is rejected?
A: If the tax return is rejected, the authorization hold on the funds is reversed and payment is not made. If you want to initiate IFP again for the return, the payment authorization must be completed again from the IFP screen before re-transmitting.

Q: When is the payment date?
A: The payment date is the date the card is successfully authorized. So, even though the actual payment transaction doesn’t occur until the return is accepted, it is considered paid on the date the card is authorized.

Q: Can I choose a different (later) payment date through IFP?
A: No. The payment is processed as soon as the e-filed return or extension is accepted by IRS.

Q: Does the taxpayer’s address on the tax return have to match the billing address on the card?
A: No. The address should be the taxpayer’s address on Form 1040, regardless of the billing address associated with the card and cardholder.

Q: Can someone else pay the taxpayer’s balance due?
A: Yes, the cardholder may be different from the person owing the tax.

Q: The taxpayer wants to make the payment electronically, but at later date. What should I tell the taxpayer?
A: You can provide the Drake E-Payment Center web address (www.1040paytax.com), where taxpayers can make payments when it is convenient for them. A payment made on this website is a completely separate transaction from the e-file process.

Q: Using IFP, can the taxpayer pay part of the balance due with a card and the rest by paper check or electronic funds withdrawal?
A: No. If the taxpayer uses IFP, the entire amount of the expected balance due must be paid with the credit or debit card.  

Q: Is there a way for the taxpayer to check on the status of a payment?
A: Yes, the taxpayer will need to go to www.integratedfileandpay.com/status and provide the payment amount (or last 4 digits of the payment card number) and his or her Social Security Number.

Q: Is there a fee to use IFP?
A: Standard convenience fees apply when using the IFP service. Fees are based on the amount of the payment or payment method and are shown after selecting your payment method.

Q: Does the IRS get my client’s payment method information?
A: No, the IRS does not receive any personal payment method data such as credit card numbers.

Additional Information is available by logging into Support > Partner Programs > Pay Taxes with Credit Card: