Important Deadlines
Standard Filing Deadline
The standard deadline for filing your 2024 tax return is Monday, April 15, 2025. This applies to most individual taxpayers filing Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR.
Extended Deadlines
If you need more time, you can request an automatic extension using Form 4868, which gives you until October 15, 2025 to file. However, remember that:
- An extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay
- Any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15, 2025
- Interest and penalties may apply to unpaid balances
Special Circumstances
Due to the Patriots' Day holiday, taxpayers in Maine and Massachusetts have until April 17, 2025 to file their returns.
The IRS may announce extended deadlines for areas affected by natural disasters. Check the IRS disaster relief page for updates.
Filing Status and Requirements
Your filing status and number of dependents can impact your tax filing deadline. For example, if you are married and filing jointly, you will need to file your taxes together. You can use the IRS Filing Status guide to determine your filing status and the number of dependents you can claim.
Required Documents
Before filing, ensure you have:
Income Documents
- W-2 forms from employers
- 1099 forms for contract work
- Investment income statements
- Social Security benefit statements
Deduction Documentation
- Mortgage interest statements
- Property tax records
- Charitable donation receipts
- Education expense records
Early Filing Benefits
Filing early offers several advantages:
- Faster refunds
- More time to pay if you owe taxes
- Reduced risk of tax identity theft
- Better access to tax professionals
- Time to correct any filing errors
Digital Filing Options
Most taxpayers can file electronically through:
- IRS Free File (if income is $73,000 or less)
- Commercial tax preparation software
- Professional tax preparers
- IRS e-file system
Payment Options
If you owe taxes, several payment methods are available:
- Direct bank transfer
- Credit or debit card
- IRS payment plans
- Check or money order
If you are unable to pay your taxes in full, you can set up a payment plan using the IRS Online Account. You can also use the IRS Payment Plan Calculator to estimate your monthly payments.
"File even if you can't pay. The failure-to-file penalty is typically more expensive than the failure-to-pay penalty." - IRS Guidelines
Late Filing Penalties
Failing to file on time can result in significant penalties:
Failure to file: 5% of unpaid taxes per month
Failure to pay: 0.5% of unpaid taxes per month
Maximum combined penalty: 47.5% of unpaid taxes
You can use the IRS Penalty Calculator to estimate any penalties you may owe.
Remember to keep copies of all tax documents for at least three years after filing. This helps protect you in case of future audits or questions about your return.