Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
Tax Day — when most taxpayers have to file their federal income tax return for the 2024 tax year — falls on April 15, 2025. However, some taxpayers impacted by storms and natural disasters have more time to file.
Special tax extension rules also apply to Americans living abroad and people serving (or who served) in a combat zone or contingency operation. As a result, they might have more time beyond April 15 to file their federal income tax return and pay whatever tax they are expected to owe. And they could receive an extension past October 15.
In any case, here's what you need to know about when taxes are due.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Tax deadline extensions for natural disasters
If the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declares a disaster area following a natural disaster, the IRS usually offers tax relief for the disaster victims in the form of tax filing and payment extensions. In the case of certain recent natural disasters, the April 15 tax filing and payment deadline is extended in certain states for individuals and businesses residing or located in the designated disaster areas.
Suppose you were a victim of a natural disaster like the California wildfires. In that case, the IRS recommends you recover your federal and state tax records as soon as possible. Having your tax documents available can serve as proof of income, property ownership, and help you claim expenses that may be subject to federal disaster-related tax deductions or government relief.
Generally, the IRS and state governments allow taxpayers to recover their tax records and other relevant documents for free in the aftermath of a disaster.
Tax Extension: Do you need more time to file?
If, for some reason, you are not able to file your federal tax return on time, you can request an automatic six-month tax extension to October 15, 2025, by filing Form 4868 or making an electronic tax payment. To get an extension, you have to act by the original due date for your return, whether that is April 15, or another extended deadline date.
Keep in mind, however, that an extension to file doesn't extend the time to pay your tax. If you don't pay the tax due by your tax deadline date, then you will owe interest on the unpaid tax and could be looking at additional penalties for filing and paying late.
Deadlines for state tax returns
Unless you live in a state with no income tax, you probably have to file a state tax return as well. Most states synch their income tax return deadline with the federal tax due date. But double check your state deadline to be sure.
State rules regarding tax filing extensions may differ from federal rules. So, check with the state tax agency where you live to find out when your state tax return is due and/or how to get an extension.
Related
- States With IRS Extended Tax Deadlines
- How to Pay the IRS if You Owe
- Tax Season: IRS Changes to Know Before You File
- What's the Standard Deduction?
-
The 401(k) Mistake That Could Cost You Millions in Retirement SavingsThinking about reducing your 401(K) contributions in the current market? Here are six reasons why you may want to reconsider.
-
What the HECM? Combine It With a QLAC and See What HappensCombining a reverse mortgage known as a HECM with a QLAC (qualifying longevity annuity contract) can provide longevity protection, tax savings and liquidity for unplanned expenses.
-
New Proposal Would Let You Use 529 Plan Savings for Homeschool ExpensesSavings Accounts A new House GOP bill could change how you save for your child's homeschool education. Find out how.
-
Five ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Tax Changes to Watch in the SenateTax Policy The House passed its version of Trump’s "One Big, Beautiful Bill." Here’s what to look for as Senate Republicans take up the mega legislation.
-
Ask the Editor, May 30: Questions on the One Big Beautiful BillAsk the Editor In this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, we answer tax questions from readers on the House-passed “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
-
New GOP Car Loan Tax Deduction: Which Vehicles and Buyers QualifyTax Breaks To fulfill Trump's campaign promise, House GOP lawmakers want to offer a tax deduction for car loan interest. How would it work?
-
Ask the Editor, May 23: Reader Questions on Gifts, Estate TaxIn this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, we answer tax questions from readers on gifts, the estate tax and stepped-up basis upon death.
-
Big GOP Tax Bill Could Change Your Estate Planning for 2025Tax Law The GOP might extend and increase the higher estate and gift tax exemption and AMT thresholds. What might this mean for your estate plan?
-
New 'No Tax on Tips' Bill Approved: What to Know NowIncome Taxes Will you stop paying taxes on your tip income this year?
-
Ask the Editor, May 16 — Reader Questions on Capital GainsIn our latest Ask the Editor round-up, Joy Taylor, The Kiplinger Tax Letter Editor, answers three questions from readers on capital gains.
