Tax Day is upon us. If you haven't already, quickly get all your tax paperwork together and plan for how you're going to both complete and file your taxes by tomorrow. You also need to plan how you're going to pay what you owe, if applicable.
Since the official tax deadline is Tuesday, it's important to note the major deadlines for filing and paying your taxes — and if you have more time to file. While a majority of states adhere to the federal government's timetable, some have their own deadlines, too. Plus, there are several regions that have tax extensions due to hurricanes, flooding, fires and other natural disasters. Here are the key dates you need to know to get you through this tax filing season.
For more tax tips, see how the new tax brackets might put more money in your paycheck or find out if you live in a state that lowered income taxes.
How soon can I file my 2024 tax return?
The IRS announced the official start date for tax filing season as Monday, Jan. 27, 2025.
Note that employers were required to send employees their W-2 and 1099 income tax forms by the end of January.
When is the deadline for filing a 2024 tax return with the IRS?
The official deadline for most people to file federal tax returns is Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
There are a few exemptions. The IRS offers extensions in the event of a disaster. For instance, those directly impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton will have until May 1, 2025, to file various individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. Taxpayers impacted by LA County wildfires now have until Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, to file.
Military personnel serving abroad or in a combat zone may also be granted additional time to file. You can find a roundup of exceptions to the April 15 deadline here.
What is the deadline to file for a tax extension?
April 15, 2025, is also the deadline to file a six-month tax extension with the IRS if you need more time to file your taxes.
Note that filing an extension doesn't change your payment deadline — it just gives you an extension until Wednesday, Oct. 15, to complete the relevant paperwork. You still have to submit any payments you owe by April 15 to avoid late penalties.
States with tax-filing exceptions
Nine states do not levy an earned income tax. These states are Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming. Among these, New Hampshire and Washington impose taxes on certain types of income, such as stock earnings and investments, but do not tax income earned from employment.