2024 Tax Filing Deadline: Key Dates to Remember

## Understanding the 2024 Tax Filing Deadline As we approach the new year, it's crucial to stay informed about the upcoming tax filing deadlines. Whether you're an individual taxpayer or a business owner, knowing these key dates can help you avoid penalties and ensure a smooth tax season. ## Primary Filing Deadline and Special Extensions The standard tax filing deadline for most individual taxpayers is **Monday, April 15, 2024**. This applies to Form 1040 and related schedules for the 2023 tax year. ### Special Cases - **Maine and Massachusetts Residents**: Due to the Patriots' Day holiday, taxpayers in these states have until **Wednesday, April 17, 2024** - **Natural Disaster Areas**: Taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas may qualify for extended deadlines. Visit the [IRS disaster relief page](https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations) ## Key Dates Timeline 1. **January 15, 2024**: Fourth Quarter Estimated Tax Payment Due for 2023 2. **January 29, 2024**: IRS begins accepting and processing 2023 tax returns 3. **January 31, 2024**: - W-2 forms due to employees - 1099 forms due to contractors - Deadline for businesses to file these forms with the IRS 4. **March 15, 2024**: Deadline for Partnerships and S-Corporations (Forms 1065 and 1120-S) 5. **April 15, 2024**: Individual Tax Returns and C-Corporation Returns Due 6. **June 17, 2024**: Second Quarter Estimated Tax Payment Due 7. **September 16, 2024**: - Third Quarter Estimated Tax Payment Due - Extended deadline for Partnerships and S-Corporations 8. **October 15, 2024**: Extended Individual Tax Returns Due ## Extension Options If you need more time to file, you can request an automatic six-month extension using [Form 4868](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868). Important points about extensions: * Extends filing deadline to **October 15, 2024** * Must be submitted by April 15, 2024 * Does *not* extend time to pay taxes owed * Available through: - IRS Free File - Tax preparation software - Tax professionals - Mail submission ## Penalty Information > Failure to file by the deadline can result in penalties of 5% of unpaid taxes for each month or partial month the return is late, up to 25%. For more information about penalties and interest, visit the [IRS penalties and interest page](https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties). ## Tips for a Smooth Tax Season ### Document Preparation * Gather all necessary documents early: - W-2 forms from employers - 1099 forms for freelance work - Interest statements (Form 1099-INT) - Dividend statements (Form 1099-DIV) - Charitable donation receipts - Medical expense receipts ### Best Practices - Consider filing electronically for faster processing and quicker refunds - Use the [IRS Free File](https://www.irs.gov/filing/irs-free-file-do-your-taxes-for-free) program if eligible - Keep copies of all tax documents - Set calendar reminders for important dates - Consider professional help for complex tax situations - Stay informed about tax law changes ## State Tax Considerations Keep in mind that state tax deadlines may differ from federal deadlines. Check with your state's tax agency for specific dates and requirements. For the most current information and updates, always refer to the [official IRS website](https://www.irs.gov/).

2024 Tax Filing Deadline: Key Dates to Remember

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