To find out how much you owe the IRS, you have several reliable options:

• Create and access your IRS online account: This is the most convenient way. You can sign up on the IRS website by verifying your identity through ID.me, which requires a photo ID, a smartphone, and your Social Security Number. Once logged in, you can see your total balance, tax owed for each year, penalties, interest, payment history, and tax records. Note that recent payments may take up to three weeks to show up in the system

• Call the IRS directly: You can call 1-800-829-1040 (individual taxpayers) Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. Be prepared with your Social Security number, filing status, and last year’s tax return to speed up verification. Keep in mind wait times can be long

• Check your latest IRS notices: If you have received IRS notices by mail, they will show the amount you owe as of the date on the notice. However, these amounts may not include recent interest, penalties, or payments, and often only cover one tax year at a time

If you find that you owe taxes but cannot pay in full, you can set up a payment plan (installment agreement) with the IRS online or by submitting Form 9465. Fees and terms vary depending on your situation, and setting up a plan reduces penalties on the unpaid balance

. In summary, the fastest and most comprehensive way to check your IRS balance is through your IRS online account, supplemented by calling the IRS or reviewing mailed notices if needed