Tax season can feel overwhelming, especially when deadlines are near. Whether you’re rushing to file your taxes or thinking about applying for an extension, here’s a complete and easy-to-understand guide to help you through the 2025 tax season.
IRS file for tax extension 2025
What is the Tax Deadline for 2025?
The official deadline to file your federal income tax return in the U.S. for the 2024 tax year is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. This is the same date by which you must pay any taxes owed to avoid penalties.
How Many Tax Returns Are Expected This Year?
According to the IRS, more than 140 million individual returns are expected to be filed for the 2024 tax year. By early April 2025, over 101 million returns had already been received.
Who Qualifies for a Later Tax Deadline Due to Disasters?
Some states and regions affected by natural disasters have been granted automatic deadline extensions. These include:
California wildfire victims – Extended deadline: Oct 15, 2025
Hurricane Helene and Milton victims – States like Alabama, Florida, and others have a new deadline: May 1, 2025
Kentucky storm victims – New deadline: Nov 3, 2025
Regions like Juneau, Alaska, and Chaves County, New Mexico, also qualify for May 1, 2025
Always check the IRS disaster relief page to see if you’re eligible.
What is a Tax Extension and What Does It Cover?
A tax extension gives you extra time to file your federal return — usually 6 more months — but not extra time to pay. You must still estimate and pay any owed taxes by April 15, or you might incur penalties and interest.
How to File for a Tax Extension (3 Easy Ways)
You can apply for a tax extension in three ways:
1. Use IRS Free File – Available for most taxpayers to e-file Form 4868.
2. Make a Tax Payment – When paying online, select the option indicating the payment is for an extension.
. File Form 4868 Manually – Send by mail, e-file with a provider, or use a tax professional.
For businesses, use Form 7004 instead.
What Info Do You Need for an Extension?
To file Form 4868, you’ll need:
Full name and address
Social Security Number (SSN)
Estimated total tax liability for 2024
Total payments you’ve already made
Balance due (if any)
No filing fee is charged for submitting Form 4868.
Why Do People File for Extensions?
Here are common reasons people file for extensions:
Missing tax documents
Need more time to gather business records
To avoid errors from rushing
Financial stress or other personal circumstances
Experts say it’s better to take more time and file correctly than to rush and make mistakes.
Things to Remember About Extensions
Extension only applies to filing, not paying
Interest may apply to any unpaid taxes after April 15
You must file Form 4868 or make an online payment by April 15, 2025
File sooner if expecting a refund, to get it faster!
FAQs About the 2025 Tax Deadline and Extensions
Q1. What happens if I miss the April 15 tax deadline?
If you don’t file or request an extension by April 15, you may face late filing penalties. If you owe taxes, interest will also be charged.
Q2. Can I file my taxes even after asking for an extension?
Yes! Once you file Form 4868, you have until October 15, 2025, to submit your federal return.
Q3. Will I get fined if I can’t pay my full taxes by April 15?
You may be charged interest and a late payment penalty, even if you filed for an extension. It’s always better to pay as much as you can on time.
Q4. Is Form 4868 available online?
Yes, you can file Form 4868 online via IRS Free File, or with the help of a tax pro or approved e-filing service.
Q5. Do all states follow the federal tax deadline?
Most states align with the federal deadline, but some have their own. Check your state tax agency’s website for details.