Tax Filing Deadlines: When to File Your Taxes

## Key Tax Filing Deadlines ### Individual Taxpayers For most individual taxpayers in the United States, the tax filing deadline is **April 15**. However, if April 15 falls on a weekend or a holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day. For example, in 2024, the filing deadline is [April 15th](https://www.irs.gov/filing/individuals/when-to-file). #### Extensions If you need more time to file your taxes, you can request an automatic six-month extension using [Form 4868](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868). This extension gives you until **October 15** to file your return. Important points about extensions: * The extension request must be filed by the original due date * This is an extension to *file*, not to *pay* - any taxes owed are still due by the original deadline * Interest charges accrue on unpaid taxes ### Business Tax Deadlines | Business Type | Tax Return Due Date | |--------------|---------------------| | S-Corporations | March 15 | | Partnerships | March 15 | | C-Corporations | April 15 | | Non-profits | May 15 | Businesses can request extensions using Form 7004: - S Corporations and Partnerships can extend to **September 15** - C Corporations can extend to **October 15** ### Quarterly Estimated Taxes Self-employed individuals and those with significant non-wage income should pay quarterly estimated taxes: 1. **April 15** (for income earned January 1 - March 31) 2. **June 15** (for income earned April 1 - May 31) 3. **September 15** (for income earned June 1 - August 31) 4. **January 15** of the following year (for income earned September 1 - December 31) ## Special Circumstances ### International Taxpayers U.S. citizens and resident aliens living abroad receive an automatic two-month extension until **June 15**. However, any taxes owed are still due by April 15 to avoid interest charges. ### Natural Disasters The IRS occasionally provides relief for taxpayers affected by natural disasters. Visit the [IRS disaster relief page](https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations) to check if your area qualifies for extended deadlines. ## Tips for Meeting Tax Deadlines 1. **Start Early**: Begin gathering documents in January when W-2s and 1099s start arriving, including: * Income statements * Mortgage interest statements * Charitable donation receipts * Investment income reports 2. **Use Digital Tools**: Consider using tax preparation software or working with a certified tax professional through platforms like [TurboTax](https://turbotax.intuit.com/) or [H&R Block](https://www.hrblock.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqrs1Hflj2XtFUJRspNDvLLUpdqUt2PrSseItNgsl1lPuK3HB8j). 3. **Set Reminders**: Mark important tax deadlines in your calendar and set up alerts at least two weeks before each deadline. 4. **File Electronically**: E-filing is faster and more secure than paper filing, allowing for quicker processing and refunds. 5. **Plan for Payments**: If you owe taxes, plan how you will pay them by the deadline to avoid penalties. ## Penalties for Missing Deadlines > The failure-to-file penalty is usually 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to 25% of your unpaid taxes. ## Emergency Filing Options If you're approaching the deadline and still not ready: 1. File an extension 2. Submit a partial return with estimated figures 3. Consider using the [IRS Free File](https://www.irs.gov/filing/individuals/when-to-file/irs-free-file-do-your-taxes-for-free) program for a quick submission For more detailed information, visit the [IRS website](https://www.irs.gov/) or consult with a tax professional.

Tax Filing Deadlines: When to File Your Taxes

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