Understanding Tax Filing Deadlines
The due date for filing your federal individual income tax return is generally April 15th of each year if you’re a calendar year filer and your tax year ends on December 31st. However, if April 15th falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the due date is extended to the next business day.
E-filing Deadlines
Electronically filed tax returns are accepted until November. The specific cutoff date in November is typically announced in October in the QuickAlerts Library. It’s important to note that:
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If April 15th doesn’t fall on a weekend or legal holiday, you must file Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, on or before April 15th for your return to be considered timely if filed after April 15th.
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If April 15th falls on a weekend or legal holiday, you have until midnight the next business day following April 15th to timely file either Form 4868 or your tax return.
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If you timely file Form 4868, you have until October 15th to timely file your return. If October 15th falls on a weekend or legal holiday, you have until midnight the next business day following October 15th to timely file your tax return.
Consequences of Late Filing
If you have a balance due and don’t timely file Form 4868, you may be subject to a failure to file penalty if you file your return after April 15th (or after the next business day following April 15th, if April 15th falls on a weekend or legal holiday).
Key Points to Remember
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The general due date for filing federal individual income tax returns is April 15th.
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Electronically filed tax returns are accepted until November.
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Timely filing of Form 4868 extends the deadline to October 15th.
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Late filing may result in penalties if a balance is due.
How to File Taxes For the First Time: Beginners Guide from a CPA
FAQ
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