Tax Season 2025: What to Know If You Missed the Filing Deadline

For many Americans, tax season is an annual stressor—and this year is no exception. Between juggling work, family, and everyday responsibilities, filing taxes on time can feel like an uphill battle.

If April 15 came and went and you still haven’t filed, don’t panic. There are still options to help you avoid penalties and regain control of your financial to-do list.

Tax Extension: A Common and Legal Option

Missing the filing deadline doesn’t have to mean trouble with the IRS. Taxpayers can request an extension using Form 4868, giving them an additional six months—until October 15, 2025—to file their federal return. This extension is officially sanctioned by the IRS and easier to complete than many assume.

However, it’s important to note that a filing extension does not extend your payment deadline. If you owe taxes, the amount must still be paid by April 15 to avoid interest and late payment penalties. The extension only covers the paperwork, not the payment itself.

For taxpayers unable to pay their full tax bill upfront, an extension might not be the best fit. Instead, the IRS offers payment plan options, including short-term and long-term installment agreements. To apply, individuals must fill out Form 9465 and submit it via the IRS website.

How to File an Extension

There are two primary ways to file:

• By mail: Download and complete Form 4868, estimate your taxes owed, and send it to the appropriate IRS address (listed on the form).
• Online: Use IRS-approved platforms like TurboTax, H&R Block, or Free File tools. Filing digitally is faster, more convenient, and provides confirmation once submitted.

Keep in mind that a federal extension does not automatically apply to state taxes. If your state requires a separate extension, you’ll need to file that individually.

One major reason to file an extension is to dodge the failure-to-file penalty, which can cost 5% of the unpaid tax per month, up to 25%. This is one of the steepest penalties the IRS imposes—filing late without an extension can get expensive quickly.

The IRS has granted automatic filing and payment extensions to residents of 13 states impacted by recent natural disasters. For example:

• South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina: New deadline is May 1
• Los Angeles County, California: Extended to October 15
• Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, and parts of West Virginia: Deadline extended to November 3

These extensions apply to both filing and payment deadlines.

Final Reminders

• Yes, you can use TurboTax to file for an extension.
• Technically, the extension form (Form 4868) was due by April 15—but if you missed that, you should still file as soon as possible to minimize penalties and interest.

Tax season may be stressful, but with the right tools and timely action, it’s manageable. Whether you’re filing late, setting up a payment plan, or navigating disaster relief extensions, staying informed is the first step to staying ahead.