When to File Taxes: Key Deadlines and Dates for Tax Season

## Key Tax Filing Deadlines ### January Dates - **January 15**: Fourth quarter estimated tax payments due for the previous tax year - **January 31**: Employers must send W-2 forms to employees and 1099 forms to independent contractors ### Standard Filing Deadlines **April 15** is the traditional deadline for filing federal income tax returns. If this date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day. For businesses: - **March 15**: Partnerships (Form 1065) and S Corporations (Form 1120S) - **April 15**: C Corporations (Form 1120) ### Quarterly Estimated Tax Payment Deadlines | Quarter | Due Date | |---------|----------| | Q1 | April 15 | | Q2 | June 15 | | Q3 | September 15 | | Q4 | January 15 (following year) | ## Extensions and Special Circumstances ### Filing for an Extension You can request an automatic six-month extension using [Form 4868](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868). Important points: 1. Must be filed by the original due date 2. Extends filing deadline to October 15th 3. Does *not* extend time to pay taxes owed 4. Available to all taxpayers ### Special Cases - **Natural Disaster Areas**: The IRS provides extended deadlines for taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas. Check the [IRS disaster relief page](https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations). - **Military Personnel**: Active duty members serving in combat zones receive automatic extensions: - 180 days after leaving the combat zone - Additional time for qualifying hospitalization - Applies to filing and payment deadlines > While most states align with federal filing deadlines, some have different dates. Always verify your state's specific requirements through your state tax agency website. ## Common Tax Forms - W-2 (Employment income) - 1099-MISC (Contract work) - 1099-INT (Interest income) - 1098 (Mortgage interest) - 1095 (Health insurance verification) ## Penalties for Late Filing * Failure-to-file penalty: 5% of unpaid taxes per month (maximum 25%) * Failure-to-pay penalty: 0.5% of unpaid taxes per month (maximum 25%) * Interest charges on unpaid taxes ## Tips for a Smooth Tax Season 1. **Organize Documents Early**: Gather all necessary documents well before the filing deadline 2. **Consider E-Filing**: Electronic filing is faster and more secure than paper filing 3. **Use Tax Software or Professional Help**: Simplify the process with tax software or professional assistance 4. **Stay Informed**: Monitor the [IRS website](https://www.irs.gov/) for updates and changes 5. **File Early**: Benefits include: - Faster refunds - More time to plan for taxes owed - Reduced risk of tax identity theft - Less stress and rushing - Better access to tax professionals Remember to keep copies of all tax returns and supporting documents for at least three years after filing.

When to File Taxes: Key Deadlines and Dates for Tax Season

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