Key Dates for Filing Your 2024 Tax Return

A calendar marked with important tax deadlines and a pen resting on a tax form.

Important Tax Filing Dates

January 2024

  • January 16, 2024: Fourth quarter 2023 estimated tax payment deadline
  • January 23-29, 2024: IRS begins accepting and processing 2023 tax returns
  • January 31, 2024: Deadline for employers to send W-2 forms and businesses to issue 1099 forms

February 2024

  • February 15, 2024: Deadline to file new W-4 form to continue withholding exemption from previous year

March 2024

  • March 15, 2024: S-corporation and partnership returns due (Form 1120-S and Form 1065)

April 2024

  • April 15, 2024: Standard deadline for filing 2023 tax returns and paying taxes owed
  • April 16, 2024: Deadline for Washington, D.C. residents
  • April 17, 2024: Deadline for Maine and Massachusetts residents (due to Patriots' Day)

June 2024

  • June 17, 2024: Second quarter 2024 estimated tax payment due

September 2024

  • September 16, 2024: Third quarter 2024 estimated tax payment due

October 2024

  • October 15, 2024: Extended deadline for filing 2023 tax returns

Filing Tips and Resources

Required Documentation

Income Documents

  • W-2 forms
  • 1099 forms (various types)
  • Schedule K-1s
  • Self-employment income records

Deduction Documentation

  • Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098)
  • Charitable donation receipts
  • Educational expense records (Form 1098-T)
  • Medical expense records

Electronic Filing Options

  • IRS Free File (for those with income below $73,000)
  • Commercial tax preparation software
  • Professional tax preparers
  • IRS Direct File program (pilot program for 2024)

Tips for a Smooth Tax Season

  • Organize your documents early
  • Consider e-filing for faster processing
  • Use tax software for guidance
  • Consult a professional for complex situations

Remember: An extension of time to file is NOT an extension of time to pay. If you expect to owe taxes, you should pay the estimated amount by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.

Special Considerations

Late Filing Penalties

  • Failure-to-file penalty: 5% of unpaid taxes per month
  • Failure-to-pay penalty: 0.5% of unpaid taxes per month
  • Interest charges on unpaid taxes

Special Circumstances

  • Natural Disaster Areas: Check the IRS disaster relief page for extended deadlines
  • Military Personnel: 180 days after leaving combat zones to file returns and pay taxes

Additional Resources

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