Can't-Pay Tax Bill Action Plan

A one-page checklist for the moment you realize you owe more than you can pay. It walks you through what to do right now, what to set up this month, and how to keep it from happening again, with the key penalty rates and deadlines for tax year 2026 on the same page.

It's for anyone staring at a federal or Virginia balance due they can't cover by April 15. Work through it in order. Every step you take early makes the penalties smaller.

Have your return (or your tax software's balance due), your bank account details for IRS Direct Pay, and your Virginia Tax online account login handy. When you're done, you'll know your total balance, which payment plan fits, and what to put on the calendar for next year.