Most U.S. states require residents (and sometimes nonresidents with in-state income) to pay state income taxes. Just like with federal taxes, these bills can be paid securely online through official state revenue websites. This guide explains the most common methods, important deadlines, and provides a state-by-state overview so you can pay your state income tax bill online quickly and safely.
Table of Contents
- State Income Tax Overview
- Common Online Payment Methods
- Deadlines and Penalties
- State-by-State Payment Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Official Resources
1) State Income Tax Overview
Forty-two states and the District of Columbia levy some form of individual income tax. While rules vary, nearly every state now offers secure online portals for tax payments. Online payment avoids mailing delays, provides instant confirmation, and helps you avoid penalties.
- States with no individual income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wyoming.
- States with income tax: All others, plus the District of Columbia.
2) Common Online Payment Methods
Across states, the following options are common:
- Bank draft (ACH): Direct debit from checking/savings.
- Debit/credit card: Small fee charged by the processor.
- E-check: Electronic check with routing/account numbers.
- Third-party processors: Some states use services like ACI Payments or Official Payments.
- Payment plans: Many states allow installment agreements if you can’t pay in full.
3) Deadlines and Penalties
Most states align their filing deadlines with the federal deadline (around April 15), but some have different dates. Late payment usually triggers:
- Interest (varies by state, often compounded daily).
- Failure-to-pay penalties (often a percentage per month).
- Possible collection actions for long-term nonpayment.
Important: An extension to file does not extend the time to pay in most states—just like with federal taxes.
4) State-by-State Payment Guide
Below is a quick reference for paying your state income tax bill online. Always confirm you are on the official state revenue website before entering payment information.
Selected State Examples
- California (Franchise Tax Board): Pay via Web Pay (free bank draft), debit/credit card via processor, or installment agreement.
- New York (Department of Taxation and Finance): Pay via Online Services, ACH or card.
- Illinois (Department of Revenue): Use MyTax Illinois portal for ACH, card, or payment plans.
- Texas: No personal income tax, but note franchise tax for businesses.
- Florida: No personal income tax.
For a full list, visit the Federation of Tax Administrators’ directory of state tax agencies.
5) Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my state income tax with a credit card?
Yes, most states allow card payments through approved processors, but a convenience fee usually applies.
Can I set up an installment plan with my state?
Yes, many states allow you to request a payment plan online, often through the same portal you’d use to make a one-time payment.
Do states accept PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App?
No. Most states only accept ACH bank drafts, debit, or credit cards.
Are state tax payments secure online?
Yes—when using official state portals. Always confirm you are on a .gov or .state.us domain.
6) Official Resources
- Federation of Tax Administrators Directory
- IRS.gov (for federal information)
- State Department of Revenue or Taxation websites (see links above).