Don't Miss the Final Tax Return Deadline

The IRS tends to be something of a stickler when it comes to filing tax returns and paying taxes on time. And that time is ticking—there are only a few days left before the official April 15 deadline. If you think filing is a headache, just wait until you're dealing with penalties and interest. Here's what you need to know about the upcoming tax deadlines help you file on time in 2025.

Key tax deadline information

The standard tax filing deadline for most individual taxpayers is typically April 15. However, if you requested an extension earlier this year, your final deadline to file your 2024 tax return is October 15, 2025. You can request an extension by April 15 with the IRS here.

This six-month extension gives you additional time to complete your return, but remember: An extension to file is not an extension to pay. If you owe taxes and don't pay by the April deadline, you'll start accruing penalties and interest.

Last-minute filing options

If you're approaching the April deadline, you have several filing options:

1. E-file through the IRS Free File program. With Free File, you complete your tax return using guided software via a partner site, which then e-files it with the IRS. Available to taxpayers with adjusted gross income of $84,000 or less in 2024.

2. Use commercial tax preparation software. I used H&R Block this year and was done within an hour. Check out my guide here to choose between other popular TurboTax and FreeTaxUSA.

3. Hire a tax professional. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) or Enrolled Agents can help with complex returns. Here's how to make sure your preparer knows what they're doing.

4. File by mail. Though not recommended due to processing delays, you can still file a paper return (postmarked by April 15—or Oct. 15 if you secured that extension).

What happens if you miss the October deadline, too

If you're reading this in October, you might be in a tough spot. Missing the extended deadline can result in:

• Failure-to-file penalty. This amount is typically 5% of unpaid taxes for each month your return is late, up to 25%.

• Continued interest. You'll also end up owing interest on any unpaid tax liability, which compounds daily.

• Loss of refund. If you don't file, you won't get that refund. Keep in mind that if you do eventually file and are owed a refund, you generally have three years to claim it before it expires.

If you can't meet the Oct. 15 deadline, your options are limited. The IRS generally doesn't grant additional extensions beyond Oct. 15 except in pretty specific circumstances:

• Those living outside the United States may qualify for an additional extension.

• Military personnel in combat zones receive automatic extensions.

• Those affected by federally declared disasters may receive additional time.

Tips for last-minute filers

The most important piece of advice here: File even if you can't pay. Filing on time avoids the failure-to-file penalty, which is typically higher than the failure-to-pay penalty. So start to gather all necessary documents, like W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for deductions and credits. You can also look into requesting a payment plan; for anyone who can't pay in full, the IRS offers installment agreements.

Looking ahead: Tax planning for 2025

Avoid the current headache that brought you to this article and start using a spreadsheet to track all your tax-related information throughout the year. I've created a basic template to get you started here. The purpose is to create a handy archive of all your tax records in one spot, making it much easier to file on time next year.

Remember, filing your taxes is a legal obligation. Even if you can't pay what you owe, filing your return on time helps minimize penalties and keeps you in compliance with tax laws. And finally, for specific advice regarding your tax situation, you really should consult with a qualified tax professional.

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