The federal income tax filing deadline is usually Tuesday, April 15, 2025. For disaster-area taxpayers, the IRS has postponed filing and payment deadlines. Visit the IRS Tax Relief in Disaster Situations page for updated details.
Need more time?
If you can’t file by the April deadline, use IRS Form 4868 to request an extension. Filing gives you until October 15, 2025, to submit your return. Electronic extensions must be filed by the original April deadline. Late filing may lead to penalties.
Special rules apply if you live or serve in the military outside the U.S. on the deadline.
Pay what you owe
Failing to file because you owe taxes is a common mistake. If you owe, file your return and pay as much as possible by the due date. Filing on time limits penalties, and payment options like installment plans may be available.
An extension to file doesn’t extend your time to pay. You must estimate and pay what you owe by the April due date. Late payments will accrue interest and may incur penalties. If the IRS finds your estimate unreasonable, they can void your extension.
Tax refunds
To get your refund faster, file your tax return as soon as possible. Most refunds are issued within 21 days if filed electronically and no issues are found. Avoid paper returns to minimize delays.
IRA Contributions
You can contribute to your IRA for 2024 until the April 2025 due date, offering a valuable opportunity to boost your retirement savings. If you’re a disaster-area taxpayer, you may qualify for extra time to make contributions. For tailored advice on maximizing your IRA benefits, consider consulting with a financial advisor. They can guide you through wealth planning strategies and help you align your contributions with your long-term financial goals. Proactive planning with expert input ensures you’re making the most of your retirement savings while building a solid foundation for future financial security.
For more IRA tips, read our blog post: There’s Still Time to Fund an IRA for 2024
