When is the last day to file taxes? See deadlines for Tax Day 2026 The Internal Revenue Service has set the final deadline for filing federal income tax returns for the 2025 tax year at April 15, 2026. Taxpayers who need additional time to prepare their returns can request a six-month extension, which would push the deadline to October 15. The IRS began accepting federal tax returns on January 26, 2026, and most individuals are expected to submit their filings by the April 15 deadline. For state tax obligations, the majority of U.S. states align their deadlines with the federal calendar, setting April 15 as the final day to file. However, some states, including Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, also adhere to this date. Taxpayers are advised to consult their respective state tax authorities for confirmation, as local variations may exist. Failure to meet the April 15 deadline could result in penalties from the IRS. The agency imposes a Failure to File Penalty, which is calculated as 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month the return is delayed, up to a maximum of 25% of the total tax owed. Additionally, a smaller penalty of 0.5% applies if a taxpayer files a return but does not pay the full amount owed or fails to pay taxes after receiving an extension. Exceptions to the April 15 deadline are available for specific circumstances. Taxpayers affected by disasters, such as natural disasters or emergencies, may qualify for an automatic extension. Similarly, individuals residing in states with local holidays may have adjusted deadlines. A comprehensive list of disaster-related extensions can be found on the IRS website. Those who request an extension to file their returns must still pay any taxes owed by the original April 15 deadline.#irs #internal_revenue_service #damon_c_williams #daniel_de_vise #haadiza_ogwude
