Tax professionals are helping launch a new system that will allow many individuals who owe delinquent federal taxes to apply online for a payment agreement, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced Monday. The IRS estimates that 90 percent of taxpayers who qualify for payment agreement will be able to obtain one through the new Online Payment Agreement (OPA) once the application is available to the general public later this year.

The IRS is implementing the new OPA application through national partnerships with the tax professional community. Members of tax professional organizations are using OPA to apply for payment agreements for clients who owe taxes. This application will eliminate the need to write or call the IRS toll-free number for assistance. When fully implemented, OPA will provide an easier way for taxpayers, on their own or with the help of tax professionals, to voluntarily resolve tax liabilities.

“This new system reduces taxpayer burden by providing the convenience of online service during extended hours and on weekends,” IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson said in a prepared statement announcing OPA. “Taxpayers can set up an agreement and arrange for payment options including automatic payments through direct debit or payroll deduction.”