Tax filing deadlines: When do taxes have to be filed?

## Understanding Tax Filing Deadlines For most U.S. taxpayers, the standard federal tax filing deadline is **April 15th**. However, when this date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day. For 2024, the key date for filing 2023 tax returns is **April 15, 2024**. ## Individual Tax Filing Extensions If you need more time, you can request an automatic extension using [Form 4868](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868), which gives you until **October 15th** to file. Important considerations: * An extension of time to file is *not* an extension of time to pay * Any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties * Interest will accrue on unpaid balances starting April 16 ## Business Tax Filing Deadlines Different business entities have varying deadlines: - **Sole Proprietorships and Single-Member LLCs**: File using Form 1040 by April 15th - **Partnerships and Multi-Member LLCs**: File Form 1065 by March 15th (can extend to September 15th) - **S Corporations**: File Form 1120S by March 15th (can extend to September 15th) - **C Corporations**: File Form 1120 by April 15th (can extend to October 15th) For more detailed information, check out the [IRS business tax calendar](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/online-tax-calendar). ## Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments For self-employed individuals and those with income not subject to withholding: 1. Q1 (January-March): April 15 2. Q2 (April-June): June 15 3. Q3 (July-September): September 15 4. Q4 (October-December): January 15 of the following year Visit the [IRS estimated taxes page](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/estimated-taxes) for more information. ## Special Circumstances ### U.S. Citizens Living Abroad Americans living overseas automatically receive a 2-month extension until **June 15**. Additional extensions are available by request. ### Natural Disaster Areas The IRS occasionally provides relief for taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas. Check the [IRS disaster relief page](https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations) for current announcements. ## State Tax Deadlines Most states align with federal deadlines, but there are exceptions: * Virginia: May 1 * Delaware: April 30 * Louisiana: May 15 Check with your [state's tax authority](https://taxadmin.org/tax-agencies/) for specific deadlines and requirements. ## Penalty Information Missing the filing deadline without an extension can result in: * 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 ## Tips for Meeting Deadlines 1. Gather documents early (W-2s, 1099s, receipts) 2. Create a tax preparation checklist 3. Consider using tax preparation software or consulting a professional 4. Set calendar reminders for relevant deadlines 5. File electronically for faster processing --- Filing early can help you receive refunds faster, plan for taxes owed, reduce tax identity theft risk, and avoid last-minute stress. For the most current information and deadline changes, visit the [IRS website](https://www.irs.gov/).

Tax filing deadlines: When do taxes have to be filed?

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