Key Filing Deadlines for 2024
January Dates
- January 16, 2024: Fourth Quarter Estimated Tax Payment Due for self-employed individuals
- January 29, 2024: IRS begins accepting and processing 2023 tax returns
- January 31, 2024: Deadline for employers to send W-2 and 1099 forms
Spring Deadlines
- March 15, 2024: Deadline for partnership returns (Form 1065) and S-corporation returns (Form 1120-S)
- April 15, 2024: Standard deadline for individual tax returns (Form 1040) and first quarter 2024 estimated tax payment
- April 17, 2024: Extended deadline for Maine and Massachusetts residents due to Patriots' Day
- April 30, 2024: Delaware state tax filing deadline
- May 1, 2024: Virginia state tax filing deadline
- May 15, 2024: Louisiana state tax filing deadline
Remaining Quarterly Payments
- June 17, 2024: Second Quarter Estimated Tax Payment Due
- September 16, 2024: Third Quarter Estimated Tax Payment Due
- October 15, 2024: Extended filing deadline for those who requested an extension
Important Tax Changes for 2024
Standard Deduction Increases
- $13,850 for single filers
- $27,700 for married couples filing jointly
- $20,800 for heads of household
Electric Vehicle Credits
The Clean Vehicle Credit has new requirements:
- Final assembly in North America
- Battery components manufactured or assembled in North America
- Critical minerals extracted or processed in the U.S. or free trade agreement countries
Filing Options and Resources
E-Filing Options
E-filing is a secure and convenient way to submit your tax return. The IRS offers Free File for taxpayers with income below $73,000.
Tax Preparation Methods
- Tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block
- Professional tax preparers
- IRS Free File program
- Self-preparation and manual filing
Helpful IRS Tools
Special Circumstances
Extension Information
If you need more time to file, you can request an automatic six-month extension using Form 4868. Remember:
- Extensions must be filed by April 15, 2024
- This extends filing time, not payment time
- Taxes owed are still due by April 15, 2024
Military Personnel
Active duty military personnel serving in combat zones typically have 180 days after leaving the combat zone to file returns and pay taxes.
Penalties and Late Filing
"Filing late and paying late can result in significant penalties and interest charges." - IRS Commissioner
- Failure-to-file penalty: Up to 5% of unpaid taxes per month (maximum 25%)
- Late payment penalty: Typically 0.5% per month on unpaid taxes
Tips for Successful Filing
- Gather documents early
- Keep records organized
- Consider using tax preparation software
- File electronically for faster processing
- Set up direct deposit for quicker refunds
Remember to stay informed about tax law changes and consult with a tax professional for specific advice regarding your situation. For the most current information, visit the IRS website.