When Are Taxes Due?
For most people in the U.S., your federal income tax return is due in mid-April. But the exact date and rules depend on your situation: whether you're an employee, self-employed, live abroad, or need an extension.
⚡Short Answer (For Most People)
- 📋Federal return (Form 1040): Due on the 15th day of the 4th month after your tax year ends. If you use a calendar year (Jan–Dec), that's usually April 15.
- 📝Extension to file: You can usually get a 6-month extension (to around October 15) by filing Form 4868 — but you still must pay what you owe by the April deadline.
- 💰Quarterly estimated taxes: Generally due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year.
- 🏛️State taxes: Many states follow the federal deadline, but not all. Always check your state's tax agency.
💡 Pro Tip: If the due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the deadline usually moves to the next business day.
🗓️1. Federal Tax Due Dates for Individuals
The IRS sets the filing deadline based on your tax year. Most individuals use a calendar tax year (January 1–December 31).
Standard Deadline (Calendar-Year Individuals)
- •Your federal return is due on the 15th day of the 4th month after your tax year ends.
- •If your tax year ends December 31, your due date is usually April 15.
- •If April 15 is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the IRS moves the deadline to the next business day.
Example: For income you earned in 2024 (your 2024 tax year), your federal return is due in mid-April 2025 unless the IRS announces a different date because of weekends, holidays, or disaster relief.
Fiscal-Year Filers (Less Common)
If your tax year doesn't end on December 31 (for example, it ends June 30), your return is due on the 15th day of the 4th month after your fiscal year ends. So if your year ends June 30, your return is generally due October 15.
⏰2. Filing Extensions vs. Payment Deadlines
There's a big difference between getting more time to file and getting more time to pay.
Extension to File (Form 4868)
- ✓You can request an automatic 6-month extension to file your federal return by submitting Form 4868 by the April deadline.
- ✓For calendar-year filers, that usually moves your filing deadline to around October 15.
- ✓An extension only protects you from late-filing penalties, as long as you file by the extended date.
Payment Is Still Due in April
- !You're expected to estimate your total tax and pay what you owe by the April deadline.
- !If you pay late, the IRS can charge interest and a failure-to-pay penalty, even if you filed an extension.
- !If you can't pay in full, you can still avoid the more expensive failure-to-file penalty by filing on time (or with an extension) and then arranging a payment plan.
📊3. When Are Quarterly Estimated Taxes Due?
If you're self-employed or have income with little or no withholding (like freelance work, rental income, or investment income), you may need to pay estimated taxes throughout the year.
Standard Estimated Tax Schedule (Calendar Year)
| Income Period | Estimated Tax Due |
|---|---|
| Jan 1 – Mar 31 | April 15 |
| Apr 1 – May 31 | June 15 |
| Jun 1 – Aug 31 | September 15 |
| Sep 1 – Dec 31 | January 15 of the next year |
Note: These dates can shift slightly in specific years if they fall on weekends or legal holidays. Certain farmers, fishers, and fiscal-year taxpayers may have different rules.
🌍4. Situations Where the Due Date May Be Different
✈️ You Live Abroad
U.S. citizens and residents whose tax home and residence are outside the U.S. on the regular due date may qualify for an automatic 2-month extension to file and pay. Interest may still apply, so check the IRS rules carefully.
🌪️ Disaster Relief Extensions
If you live in a federally declared disaster area, the IRS often postpones the filing and payment deadlines. These special deadlines are announced on the IRS website and can be different from the normal April and October dates.
🎖️ Military in Combat Zones
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces serving in designated combat zones usually receive additional time to file and pay their taxes. The length of the extension depends on how long you're in the combat zone and when you leave.
🏛️ State Income Tax Deadlines
Many states align with the federal mid-April deadline, but some have different dates, forms, or extension rules. Always check your state department of revenue or tax agency site for exact dates.
❓5. Quick FAQ
What happens if I file late?
If you file after the deadline and don't have an extension, the IRS can charge a failure-to-file penalty (usually more severe than the failure-to-pay penalty). If you also pay late, you can owe both penalties plus interest.
What if I owe but can't pay?
It's usually better to file on time (or with an extension) and then arrange a payment plan or installment agreement than to skip filing entirely. Not filing can make penalties much worse and can trigger IRS notices and enforcement.
Are the due dates the same every single year?
The pattern is consistent (15th day of the 4th month, etc.), but the exact calendar date can change when weekends, holidays, disaster relief, or new laws are involved. Always confirm the current year's date with the IRS before you rely on it.
📚6. Official IRS Resources
For the exact deadline and any year-specific changes, always check the IRS directly:
Disclaimer: This page is for general education and doesn't cover every special rule. For personalized advice, talk with a qualified tax professional.