Tax Day this year was April 15, 2024, when most people had to file their federal income tax return for the 2023 tax year. 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.
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, 2024, 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
-
A Checklist for Retiring in 2025Navigating the final stretch of your professional career can be daunting. We've compiled a checklist to help you put your best foot forward into retirement.
-
Leave Your Life Story as a Legacy for Your HeirsHere are eight resources to help pass your life story on to your family. How do you want to be remembered?
-
Tax Pros: Is Someone Fraudulently Filing Returns With Your PTIN?Tax Filing An unmonitored preparer tax identification number (PTIN) can lead to serious issues.
-
Are You a Renter? You Could Save on TaxesTax Breaks With these tax savings at your fingertips, rent may be more affordable
-
2025 Open Enrollment: Some DACA Recipients Can Purchase Affordable Care Act Health InsuranceOpen Enrollment Your eligibility to purchase health insurance from the federal marketplace may have changed. Here's what you need to know.
-
Holiday Office Party Taxes: Know Before You GoTax Tips The IRS could tax your gifts from Christmas raffles, Secret Santa, and White Elephant. Here’s how.
-
New Mexico Small Business Saturday Tax Holiday 2024Tax Holiday Here's how you can save on taxes during New Mexico’s Small Business Saturday.
-
Holiday Shopping Tax Tips for Business OwnersTax Deductions Before hitting the sales, businesses should know these key deductions and look out for overspending.
-
Tax Credit vs. Tax Deduction: What’s the Difference?Tax Breaks Your guide to tax deductions and credits, how the IRS treats them differently, and how they impact your tax bill.
-
Premium Tax Credit: Are You Eligible For This Health Insurance Tax Break?Tax Credits The tax credit can help qualifying individuals pay for coverage from the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance marketplace.
