The deadline for filing the 2023 tax return with the IRS is fast approaching, with most taxpayers required to file by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, April 15. However, there are exceptions to this deadline. Taxpayers in Massachusetts and Maine have until April 17 to file and pay taxes due to the Patriots’ Day and Emancipation Day holidays. Additionally, there are extensions available for individuals and businesses impacted by extreme weather or events such as the Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Active-duty military members and citizens living abroad also have extensions available to them. The IRS expects over 128.7 million individual tax returns to be filed by the deadline, with about 100 million returns received as of the week ending April 5.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel emphasized that taxpayers have many resources available to them for last-minute help with their tax returns. For those mailing their returns, the U.S. Postal Service considers a tax return filed on time if it is postmarked by the due date with the correct address and enough postage. The IRS estimated that 19 million people would file for an automatic extension, which would give them until October 15 to file their federal tax returns. However, even with an extension, taxpayers must still pay what they can afford by the April 15 deadline to avoid penalties and late fees. Failure to file or request an extension by April 15 also results in a fine.
Taxpayers needing an extension before filing a return can submit Form 4868, which includes basic information such as name, address, and Social Security number. Alternatively, individuals can obtain an extension by making a payment through the IRS’ Direct Pay, Electronic Federal Tax Payment System, credit or debit card, or digital wallet. The IRS advises that filing Form 4868 is not necessary when making an electronic payment if indicating it is for an extension already. These options aim to make it easier for taxpayers to meet their obligations and ensure they avoid penalties and fees associated with late filing or payment.
