The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) expects almost 140 million Americans to file their federal income tax returns for the 2024 tax year by the customary deadline of Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Through April 4, the agency had processed more than 101 million returns, reflecting a smooth rate of filings.
Tax Filing Deadline: April 15, 2025
For most taxpayers, the filing deadline for federal income tax returns is April 15, 2025. If April 15 is a weekend or legal holiday, the date is pushed to the next business day. It is very important that taxpayers file on time in order to escape penalties and interest.
Automatic Extensions for Disaster-Affected Areas
Taxpayers in federally proclaimed disaster areas have been provided with automatic extensions on filing and payment of their 2024 tax. For example, taxpayers from states such as Florida, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Tennessee, and certain portions of Virginia, have until May 1, 2025, to both file and make payments. Kentucky residents have a deadline of November 3, 2025, due to the magnitude of the disaster.
How to Ask for a Filing Extension
Taxpayers who require additional time to file may apply for an extension by filing Form 4868 on or before April 15. The extension provides six extra months to file, advancing the deadline to October 15, 2025. This extension is for the filing deadline only and not for the payment deadline. Taxes due are still required to be paid by April 15 in order to prevent penalties and interest.
Tips for Filing Your Taxes
- File Electronically: Utilizing e-filing procedures can help speed up processing of your return and refund.
- Consider Direct Deposit: Taking direct deposit can accelerate the processing of any refunds.
- Seek Help if Needed: If you’re not confident about your tax status, try consulting a tax professional to make sure everything is accurate and optimizes potential refunds.
