U.S. businesses and individuals will now be able to make all their federal tax payments through a new IRS website. At the moment, businesses can make electronic payments through the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS). The new website will extend the service to individuals. Although the website can be used for payment, it cannot be used to lodge tax returns. The online service is free and should be particularly useful to people who need to pay tax quarterly.

When taxpayers use the site, they will be asked to provide a valid Social Security number or Federal ID number. They also must provide bank information. Payments will be taken automatically from the account nominated by the taxpayer. Taxpayers can use the site to schedule their payments in advance. The IRS feels confident that the new system offers greater security than systems currently used by banks. IRS employees will monitor the system 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. The address? www.eftps.gov