How to Pay AZ State Taxes: Methods, Deadlines, and Submission Steps

Paying Arizona state taxes correctly and on time is essential to avoid penalties and interest charges. Whether you’re an individual taxpayer or a business, understanding the available payment options and deadlines ensures compliance with state tax laws.

There are multiple ways to submit your tax payment, each with its own process. Knowing how to confirm your submission and what to do if you need more time to pay can prevent complications.

Accepted Payment Methods

Arizona provides several ways to submit state tax payments. Whether you prefer digital transactions, mailing a check, or making an in-person payment, each method has specific procedures.

Online

The Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR) offers an electronic payment system through [AZTaxes.gov](https://www.aztaxes.gov/), where individuals and businesses can securely submit payments. Accepted methods include electronic funds transfer (EFT) from a checking or savings account, as well as credit and debit cards. EFT transactions do not incur additional fees, but card payments include a processing charge.

To use this option, taxpayers must log in or create an account, select the tax type, enter payment details, and submit. A confirmation number is provided upon completion and should be saved. Many tax preparation software programs also integrate with ADOR’s system, allowing direct payment during electronic filing.

By Mail

Taxpayers who prefer mailing payments can send checks or money orders payable to the Arizona Department of Revenue. Payments must include the taxpayer’s full name, Social Security number or Employer Identification Number (EIN), and the tax year. If a payment voucher (such as Form 140V for individual income tax payments) is required, it should be included.

Mailed payments should be sent to the address listed on the taxpayer’s billing notice or the instructions for the applicable tax form. Because mailing delays can occur, sending payments early is advisable. Using certified mail provides tracking and proof of submission. Payments postmarked by the due date are considered on time, even if received later.

In Person

Taxpayers can pay in cash at ADOR’s main office in Phoenix or at authorized third-party retailers through the PayNearMe program. Participating locations, such as select convenience stores, accept cash payments. Before visiting, taxpayers should verify hours of operation and accepted payment methods, as some locations may require an appointment.

A valid ID and any necessary tax documents or payment vouchers should be provided to ensure proper processing. A receipt is issued at the time of payment as proof of submission.

Setting Up Installment Plans

For those unable to pay their full tax balance at once, Arizona offers installment payment plans. These allow taxpayers to divide their balance into monthly payments rather than making a lump sum payment.

To qualify, taxpayers typically must owe between $100 and $50,000. Larger balances may require additional financial disclosures or direct negotiation with ADOR. The application process involves submitting an Installment Payment Request, which can be completed online through AZTaxes.gov or by mailing a paper request. Approval is not automatic, and ADOR may require a down payment before finalizing the agreement. Interest continues to accrue on unpaid balances, so paying off the debt sooner reduces costs.

Once approved, taxpayers must make each payment on time to avoid defaulting. Missing a payment can result in penalties or cancellation of the agreement, potentially leading to wage garnishment or bank levies. Setting up automatic withdrawals from a bank account can help ensure timely payments.

Deadlines and Penalties

Arizona state taxes must be filed and paid on time to avoid penalties and interest charges. For individual income taxes, the standard due date is April 15, or the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday. Businesses have different due dates depending on their entity type and tax obligations. Corporations typically must file by the 15th day of the fourth month after their fiscal year ends.

Late filing results in a penalty of 4.5% of the unpaid tax per month, up to a maximum of 25%. If a return is filed but the tax remains unpaid, an additional late payment penalty of 0.5% per month applies, also capping at 25%. These penalties are calculated separately, meaning a taxpayer who fails to file and pay can face a combined penalty of 5% per month.

Interest accrues on unpaid balances at the federal short-term rate plus 3%, compounded monthly. This rate is adjusted quarterly, so checking the current percentage on ADOR’s website is recommended.

For repeated failures to meet deadlines, Arizona may impose tax liens, which can affect credit scores and loan eligibility. In extreme cases, the state may seize assets or garnish wages. Businesses that fail to pay transaction privilege tax (TPT) risk license revocation, preventing them from operating until the balance is settled. Severe cases of tax evasion can lead to criminal charges and substantial fines.

Steps to Confirm Submission

To verify that an Arizona state tax payment has been successfully submitted, taxpayers should review the acknowledgment receipt provided at the time of payment. For electronic payments made through AZTaxes.gov, a confirmation number is generated immediately and should be saved.

For mailed payments, keeping a copy of the payment voucher and using certified mail provides proof of submission. Taxpayers can also log into their AZTaxes.gov account to check payment status. Transactions typically update within a few business days, but delays may occur during peak filing periods. If a payment does not appear, reviewing bank or credit card statements can help determine whether funds were withdrawn.

If a mailed payment is not reflected in the system after a reasonable period, taxpayers should contact ADOR to confirm receipt.