Tax season comes every year. But it’s easy to forget exactly when the filing deadline falls. Whether you're an early filer eager to receive your tax refund or someone who tends to wait until the last possible moment, knowing the key tax deadlines is essential for a smooth season.
When is the last day to file taxes? And what other key dates do you need to know? Here’s a guide, plus details about what happens if you need a tax extension or miss a payment.
When are taxes due?
The standard federal tax deadline for filing your tax return
is typically April 15. For most taxpayers, this is the date by which you need to either submit your return and make your tax payment or request a tax extension. The IRS considers your return "on time" if you either:
Submit your electronic tax return by midnight in your local time zone on April 15, or
Have your paper tax return postmarked by April 15
If April 15 falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the tax filing deadline shifts to the next business day. For example, if April 15 is a Saturday, your tax return and tax payment would be due the following Monday. Always
check the IRS website for updated information about deadlines.
Keep in mind that April 15 isn't the only important date on the tax calendar. If you make quarterly estimated tax payments for self-employment or other income, for example, you may have additional tax deadlines throughout the year. And if you're expecting a federal tax refund, filing well before the deadline often means you get the money sooner.
Some taxpayers might have different deadlines. For instance, if you need more time, you can
request a tax extension that gives you until October 15 to file, though any payments due are still required by April 15.
Important tax deadlines
Most people know about Tax Day in April, but the IRS tax season actually kicks off way before that. In early January, you can start filing your tax return through
IRS Free File if you qualify.
Additionally, in 2025, the IRS rolled out its
Direct File program to 24 states, giving you another free option to file your taxes.
April 15 might be the most
important date to know, but there are many other dates to be aware of too. Here are some of the most impactful:
Getting started in January
January 15. Fourth quarter estimated tax payments are due if you're self-employed or have extra income.
January 31. This is the last day for employers to send W-2s and for you to receive certain 1099 forms for other income.
Tax days in April
April 15. This is the main tax filing deadline when your federal tax return is due to the IRS, which could be your total return or the first quarter. You also have to request an extension by April 15 (or the filing date) by
filing Form 4868.
Summer through fall
June 15. This is when second quarter estimated tax payments are due. It’s also the tax filing deadline if you're living abroad.
September 15. Third quarter estimated tax payments are due in September.
October 15. This is the final filing deadline if you got a tax extension.
Year-end wrap-up
Keep in mind that these deadlines shift to the next business day if they fall on a weekend or holiday. And if you're filing electronically (like most people do these days), you've got until midnight in your time zone on the due date. Always confirm dates with the IRS to help avoid missing key deadlines.
Tax extensions: What happens if you need more time to file?
Can't make Tax Day? Don't panic. If you need
more time to prepare for tax return dates, getting a tax extension is easy. The IRS automatically gives you six extra months to file if you request an extension by April 15.
The process for getting a tax extension is simple. File Form 4868 electronically through the IRS website or mailing in a paper form (make sure it's postmarked by the tax deadline). You can submit your form using IRS Free File or your tax preparation software or ask your tax professional to file the extension for you.
Here's the crucial part some people miss: A tax extension gives you more time to file your return, but not to pay your taxes. Any tax you owe is still due by April 15. If you're
expecting a tax refund, you won't face penalties for filing late, but why wait? The sooner you file, the sooner you get a refund.
With an extension, your new tax filing deadline becomes October 15. During this extended tax season, you can take the time to gather missing documents, work with a tax professional, and double-check your deductions.
What happens if you miss an estimated tax payment deadline?
Missing an estimated tax payment deadline isn't ideal, but it's not the end of the world. Here's what happens and what you can do.
If you miss a payment, the best thing to do is pay what you can as soon as possible. The IRS
may charge penalties if you underpay or miss estimated tax payments. The IRS calculates the penalty amount based on how much you owe and how late you pay. Interest can also add up on any unpaid federal taxes, so if you've missed multiple payments, that can affect your final tax return too.
The good news is the IRS offers payment plans if you're having trouble catching up. The IRS would rather work with you than have you skip payments entirely. You might even qualify for penalty relief if this is your first time missing a deadline or you have a good reason for the delay.
Do I have to pay taxes all at once?
No, you don't have to pay your entire tax bill at once. While paying in full by Tax Day is ideal, the IRS understands that sometimes you need more flexibility with your tax payment.
The most important thing is to
file your tax return on time, even if you can't pay the full amount due. The penalty for not filing is typically much higher than the penalty for not paying.
Once you've filed, you have several options for handling your tax payment. If you need just a little time, you can apply for a short-term
payment plan that gives you up to 180 days to pay your federal tax bill in full. The IRS charges relatively small fees for setting this up,
and you can apply online.
For bigger tax bills, you can ask for a long-term payment plan called an installment agreement. This lets you make monthly payments over time. While you pay more in fees and interest compared to a short-term plan, it can make a large tax bill more manageable.
Whatever option you choose, try to pay as much as you can by the tax deadline. This reduces the penalties and interest you'll owe. You can make payments through IRS Direct Pay, by debit or credit card online, or by check or money order.
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