IRS Is Not Extending the Tax Deadline Again
Tax Day 2020 was already pushed back from April 15 to July 15, but it won't be delayed further.
The IRS has some bad news if you were hoping for more time to file your tax return. Due to COVID-19, the original due date for filing 2019 returns was already postponed from April 15 to July 15, 2020. However, several groups were pressuring the IRS to allow even more time to file returns and pay taxes this year. But the IRS shot down that idea and announced that there will not be another delay. So, you still only have until July 15 to get your taxes done and pay any tax due.
If you can't meet the July 15 deadline for whatever reason, you can request an automatic extension of time to file until October 15 by filing Form 4868 by July 15. While this will give you more time to file your return, it does not give you more time to pay any tax due. You still have to estimate your tax liability on the extension form and pay any amount due by July 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
You can also get an extension by paying all or part of the tax you owe using Direct Pay, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), or a credit or debit card. Make sure you indicate that the payment is for an extension. When getting an extension by making a payment, you don't have to file a separate extension form and will receive a confirmation number for your records.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Be a smarter, better informed investor.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free 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.
If you're facing hardships, including those related to the coronavirus pandemic, and can't pay the tax you owe, pay what they can now and look into the various IRS payment options for the remaining balance. They include setting up a payment plan, an "offer in compromise," or requesting a temporary collection delay. Another option is to take out a loan to pay the taxes due, since loan costs could be lower than the combined IRS interest and penalties.
Finally, don't forget about your state tax return. The due date for your state return could be different than the July 15 deadline for federal returns. Check with your state tax agency to double check the tax due date where you live.
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.
Rocky Mengle was a Senior Tax Editor for Kiplinger from October 2018 to January 2023 with more than 20 years of experience covering federal and state tax developments. Before coming to Kiplinger, Rocky worked for Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, and Kleinrock Publishing, where he provided breaking news and guidance for CPAs, tax attorneys, and other tax professionals. He has also been quoted as an expert by USA Today, Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Reuters, Accounting Today, and other media outlets. Rocky holds a law degree from the University of Connecticut and a B.A. in History from Salisbury University.
-
A Lesson From the School of Rock About the MarketsIt's hard to hold your nerve during a downturn, but next time the markets take a tumble, remember this quick rock 'n' roll tutorial and aim to stay invested.
-
I retired at 65 with $7.8 million and feel like I over-saved. My 40-something son is on the same path. Should I tell him to reconsider?We ask financial experts for advice.
-
Three Critical Tax Changes Could Boost Your Paycheck in 2026Tax Tips The IRS predicts these tax breaks may change take-home pay in 2026. Will you get over $1,000 in tax savings?
-
The Rubber Duck Rule of Retirement Tax PlanningRetirement Taxes How can you identify gaps and hidden assumptions in your tax plan for retirement? The solution may be stranger than you think.
-
RMDs, Roth, and SS: Test Your Knowledge of Retirement Tax RulesQuiz Don't let the IRS catch you off guard. Take our quiz to reveal common retirement tax rules that could save (or cost) you thousands.
-
IRS Updates 2026 Tax Deduction for People Age 65 and OlderTax Changes Adjustments to the extra standard deduction can impact the tax bills of millions of older adults. Here are some new amounts to know for 2026.
-
IRS Reveals New 2026 Child Tax Credit and other Family Credit AmountsTax Credits Key family tax breaks are higher for 2026, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Adoption Credit. Here's what they're worth.
-
Standard Deduction 2026 Amounts Are HereTax Breaks What is the standard deduction for your filing status in 2026?
-
Claiming the Standard Deduction? Here Are Five Tax Breaks for Retirement in 2025Tax Tips If you’re retired and filing taxes, these five tax credits and deductions could provide thousands in relief (if you qualify).
-
New Tax Rules: Income the IRS Won’t Touch in 2025Income Taxes From financial gifts to Roth withdrawal rules, here’s what income stays tax-free under the new Trump 2025 tax bill, and some information on what’s changed.
