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IRS Urges Early Filing as 2025 Tax Deadline Approaches to Avoid Penalties

IRS Urges Early Filing as 2025 Tax Deadline Approaches to Avoid Penalties

As the April 15 deadline for federal income tax filings approaches, millions of Americans are preparing to submit their returns or request extensions. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) emphasizes the importance of timely filing and payment to avoid penalties and ensure faster refund processing. Taxpayers can file electronically or by mail, with electronic filing being encouraged for its speed and accuracy. An automatic six-month extension is available for those unable to meet the deadline, but it does not extend the time to pay any taxes owed. Common filing errors include incorrect Social Security numbers and mismatched income reporting. The IRS also warns against identity theft and tax-related scams, advising caution with unsolicited communications claiming to be from the IRS.
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USPS Rule Changes May Affect Tax Filing Deadlines, Warns National Taxpayer Advocate

USPS Rule Changes May Affect Tax Filing Deadlines, Warns National Taxpayer Advocate

As the 2026 tax filing deadline approaches, the National Taxpayer Advocate has issued a warning to Americans regarding recent changes to U.S. Postal Service (USPS) rules. These changes could result in mailed tax returns or payments being classified as late, even if taxpayers believe they sent them on time. The concern arises from new USPS procedures that affect how postmarks are applied. Previously, the 'timely mailed is timely filed' rule allowed taxpayers to rely on the postmark date as proof of timely filing. However, under the updated rules effective December 24, 2025, postmarks may now reflect the date mail is first processed at a postal facility, rather than the date it is placed in a mailbox or accepted locally. This change could lead to postmarks dated after the filing deadline, potentially resulting in penalties or interest for taxpayers.
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IRS Offers Taxpayers Six-Month Extension to File 2025 Tax Returns

IRS Offers Taxpayers Six-Month Extension to File 2025 Tax Returns

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is allowing U.S. taxpayers to file for a six-month extension on their 2025 tax returns, with the original deadline set for April 15, 2026. Taxpayers can submit Form 4868 to request this extension, either electronically or by mail, by the deadline. While the extension provides additional time to file, it does not extend the deadline for tax payments. Taxpayers are required to pay at least 90% of their estimated tax liability by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest. The IRS also encourages electronic filing and direct deposit to expedite refunds. Special provisions are in place for military personnel in combat zones and U.S. citizens living abroad, who have different filing deadlines.
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IRS Deadline Approaches: Millions Prepare for 2025 Tax Filings

IRS Deadline Approaches: Millions Prepare for 2025 Tax Filings

With the April 15 deadline for federal income tax filings approaching, millions of Americans are preparing to submit their returns or request extensions. The IRS encourages electronic filing to reduce errors and expedite refunds. Taxpayers can request a six-month extension to file, but any taxes owed must still be paid by the original deadline to avoid penalties. Common filing errors include incorrect Social Security numbers and mismatched income reporting. The IRS warns of identity theft and tax-related scams, advising caution against unsolicited communications claiming to be from the agency.
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USPS Changes Could Affect Tax Filing Deadlines for Mail Filers

USPS Changes Could Affect Tax Filing Deadlines for Mail Filers

A recent change in the U.S. Postal Service's transportation operations may affect taxpayers who file their returns by mail. The change could result in mail not arriving at processing facilities on the same day it is mailed, potentially leading to postmark dates that differ from the mailing date. This discrepancy could cause tax returns to be considered late if they do not have a postmark of April 15 or earlier, resulting in penalties and interest.
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IRS Extends Tax Filing Assistance for Millions Across the U.S.

IRS Extends Tax Filing Assistance for Millions Across the U.S.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced extended hours for select tax offices nationwide, providing in-person assistance to taxpayers just days before the filing deadline. This initiative includes opening Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) on two Saturdays in April, specifically April 11 and April 25, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The move aims to accommodate taxpayers who are unable to visit IRS offices during regular weekday hours. Services offered during these special hours include help with account issues, identity verification, and tax filings, although cash payments will not be accepted. The IRS is also planning to continue these weekend events through June, extending support beyond the traditional April rush. Taxpayers are encouraged to check the IRS website for a list of participating offices and available services.
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IRS Offers Tax Filing Extensions Amid Approaching Deadline

IRS Offers Tax Filing Extensions Amid Approaching Deadline

As the April 15 tax deadline approaches, taxpayers have the option to file for an extension until October 15. This extension allows individuals to delay filing their tax returns, but it does not extend the deadline for paying any taxes owed. Taxpayers can file Form 4868 to request an extension, and those who owe taxes can submit an electronic payment to automatically receive an extension. The IRS emphasizes that penalties will accrue if taxes are not paid by the original deadline. Penalties include a failure-to-file penalty of 5% per month on the tax owed, up to a maximum of 25%, and interest on unpaid balances. Taxpayers are encouraged to file as soon as possible to avoid penalties and interest charges.
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IRS Expands Tax Filing Assistance with Special Saturday Openings

IRS Expands Tax Filing Assistance with Special Saturday Openings

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that select Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) will open on two Saturdays in April to provide face-to-face help for taxpayers. These special openings, scheduled for April 11 and April 25, aim to assist those who cannot visit IRS offices during regular weekday hours. The initiative is part of a broader effort to extend access to in-person assistance beyond the traditional Tax Day rush. Services offered during these extended hours include help with account issues, identity verification, and tax filings, although cash payments will not be accepted. The IRS encourages taxpayers to check online for participating locations and available services, as not every office will be open, and services may vary by site.
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Denver IRS Office Extends Hours to Assist Taxpayers Before Deadline

Denver IRS Office Extends Hours to Assist Taxpayers Before Deadline

As the tax filing deadline approaches, the IRS office in Denver has announced extended hours to accommodate taxpayers seeking in-person assistance. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the IRS to provide support to individuals who may need help with their tax returns. The extended hours are intended to alleviate the pressure on taxpayers who are finalizing their filings and to ensure that they have access to the necessary resources and guidance. The IRS has been opening assistance centers across the country to facilitate this process, recognizing the importance of providing direct support to taxpayers during the busy tax season.
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USPS Rule Change May Affect Tax Filing Deadlines for Mail Filers

USPS Rule Change May Affect Tax Filing Deadlines for Mail Filers

A recent change in the U.S. Postal Service's (USPS) transportation operations could affect tax filers who submit their returns by mail. The change means that some mail may not reach processing facilities on the same day it is mailed, potentially leading to discrepancies between the mailing date and the postmark date. This could result in tax returns being considered late if they do not have a postmark of April 15 or earlier, despite being mailed on time. The Taxpayer Advocate Service warns that this could lead to penalties and interest for taxpayers.
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IRS Warns Tax Preparers Against Misappropriating Client Refunds

IRS Warns Tax Preparers Against Misappropriating Client Refunds

The Internal Revenue Service's Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has issued a warning to tax preparers regarding the endorsement or negotiation of taxpayer refunds. According to Circular 230, tax practitioners are prohibited from endorsing or negotiating any checks issued to clients by the government for federal tax liabilities. This warning addresses common practices where tax preparers and clients agree to share refunds as payment for services, especially when clients are unable to pay upfront. Violations of this regulation can lead to investigations and potential disciplinary actions, including censure, suspension, or disbarment from IRS practice.
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IRS Finalizes Regulations for Tip Deductions Under New Tax Law

IRS Finalizes Regulations for Tip Deductions Under New Tax Law

IRS Finalizes Regulations for Tip Deductions Under New Tax Law