How to pay your BIR taxes online in the Philippines in 2026.
Paying BIR taxes no longer requires going to an authorized agent bank and waiting in line. In 2026, several online and mobile payment channels are available and accepted by the BIR. This guide covers which channels you can use, how the process works for each, and what to keep as proof of payment.
Filing first, paying second.
Before you can pay BIR taxes, you need to file the appropriate return. For most individual taxpayers and freelancers, this means using the eBIRForms software to fill out and submit your return electronically – if you are not yet registered with the BIR as a freelancer, see our guide on freelancing taxes and BIR registration in the Philippines first. Once the return is filed, you receive a confirmation and a reference number. Payment is made separately using that reference number as the basis for the transaction. You cannot pay without filing first – the payment is linked to the filed return in BIR’s system.
Paying via GCash.
GCash is one of the most convenient BIR payment channels available to individual taxpayers. Open the GCash app and go to Pay Bills. Look for BIR under the Government section. Enter your TIN, the form series (e.g. 1701A, 2551Q), the return period, and the amount. Confirm the transaction and keep the GCash receipt showing the reference number and transaction date. GCash payments are accepted for most BIR form types and are reflected in BIR’s system within one to two banking days.
Paying via Maya.
Maya (formerly PayMaya) also accepts BIR payments. Open the Maya app, go to Pay Bills, and search for BIR. The process is the same as GCash – enter your TIN, form type, return period, and amount. Save or screenshot your payment confirmation. Maya payments to BIR are similarly reflected within one to two banking days.
Paying via online banking.
Most major Philippine banks – BDO, BPI, Metrobank, UnionBank, Land Bank, and others – accept BIR tax payments through their online banking portals or mobile apps. Look for the Bills Payment or Tax Payment section. Select BIR as the biller, enter your TIN and the relevant details, and complete the transaction. Keep the confirmation receipt with the reference number. Some banks have specific BIR payment forms that require you to enter the return period and form number accurately – double-check these before confirming.
Paying via Bayad Center and other payment centers.
If you prefer to pay in person at a non-bank location, Bayad Center branches accept BIR tax payments and are found in malls, convenience stores, and standalone locations nationwide. 7-Eleven, SM Business Centers, and other payment centers also accept BIR payments depending on their current list of supported billers. Bring your TIN and the form type and amount – the cashier will issue you a receipt which serves as your proof of payment.
What to keep after paying.
Always save your payment confirmation – whether it is a GCash receipt, an online banking confirmation, or a physical receipt from a payment center. The reference number on the receipt is proof that the payment was made. BIR may ask for this during audits or if there is a discrepancy in your payment records. Keep these receipts for at least ten years, which is the prescriptive period for BIR assessments on unfiled or incorrectly filed returns. For digital receipts, save them in a dedicated folder or cloud storage rather than relying on your phone’s message history alone.
What if you cannot pay on time.
If you miss a BIR payment deadline, penalties apply – a 25% surcharge on the unpaid tax, plus a 12% annual interest computed from the due date until payment. If non-filing was willful, additional criminal penalties can apply. Pay as soon as possible to stop interest from accumulating. The BIR does not send reminders or notices before penalties begin – it is your responsibility to file and pay on time.
For more practical guides on BIR and government processes in the Philippines, visit the Tutorial Hub.
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