IRS Outlines Key Tax Deadlines and Penalties for 2026 Tax Season
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced important deadlines for the 2026 tax season, with the primary filing deadline set for April 15. Taxpayers who are unable to meet this deadline can request a six-month extension, allowing them until October 15 to file their returns. However, this extension does not apply to tax payments, which are still due by April 15 to avoid penalties. The IRS has also detailed penalties for late filing and payment, with a standard penalty of 5% per month on unpaid taxes, capped at 25%. For those who file but do not pay, a smaller penalty of 0.5% per month applies. Additionally, the IRS has provided a schedule for quarterly estimated tax payments, which are due on April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15, 2027. Taxpayers expecting refunds can track their status on the IRS website, with electronic filers typically receiving refunds within three weeks. 
