Tax Season 2025: Filing Deadline and Other Due Dates to Know
Tax season 2025 is here, and staying on top of important deadlines is essential for avoiding late fees and penalties. Knowing key dates like the federal income tax filing deadline, quarterly estimated tax payment due dates, and extensions can help you stay organized and stress-free. Read on as we go over these deadlines and provide tips to ensure your tax filing process goes smoothly.
When Are Taxes Due in 2025?
Federal income tax returns for the 2025 tax season are due by Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The extended deadline for U.S. taxpayers residing overseas to file and pay is June 16, 2025. The IRS determines the timeliness of your electronic return based on the date and time it is transmitted in your local time zone. For those filing paper returns, the IRS considers the submission on time if it is correctly addressed, includes sufficient postage, and is postmarked by the deadline.
E-filers must submit their returns no later than 11:59 p.m. local time to meet the deadline. Certain groups, including members of the military and individuals impacted by natural disasters, may qualify for automatic filing extensions. Always verify eligibility for extensions and meet filing requirements to avoid penalties.
Tax Refunds
According to the IRS, taxpayers who file electronically and opt for direct deposit can typically expect to receive their tax refund within 21 days of filing. However, if you submit a paper tax return, the processing time is significantly longer, with refunds often taking four weeks or more to arrive. Choosing e-filing and direct deposit is the fastest and most efficient way to get your refund quickly.
Penalties for Failing to File on Time
Failing to file your federal tax return by the deadline can result in a penalty of 5% per month on any unpaid taxes, up to a maximum of 24% of the outstanding balance. However, if you file your return but do not pay the full amount owed or have been granted an extension, you will generally incur a lower penalty of 0.5% per month on the unpaid taxes. Filing on time and paying as much as possible by the due date is crucial to minimize penalties and interest.
Tax Extension Deadline
Filing an extension by April 15, 2025, will extend your filing deadline to October 15, 2025. While an extension provides extra time to file your tax return, it does not extend the deadline to pay any taxes owed. The IRS requires you to pay the full amount—or a reasonable estimate—by the original due date of April 15, 2025. Failing to pay by this date will result in interest charges and penalties that continue to accrue until your outstanding balance is fully paid. To avoid additional costs, ensure you meet the payment deadline even if filing later.
Deadlines for W-2 and 1099 Forms
Employers must send W-2 forms by Jan. 31. Freelancers, independent contractors, and individuals earning income from non-traditional sources should expect a 1099 tax form by February 15. If you earn self-employment income or have side gigs, ensure you check for 1099 forms to accurately report your earnings and avoid potential tax issues.
Due Dates for Quarterly Taxes
If you earn income not subject to withholding taxes, such as from self-employment or freelance work, you’re generally required to make estimated tax payments to the IRS. These payments can be made quarterly or as a single annualized payment. The annualized payment is due by April 15, while the quarterly deadlines are as follows:
- First payment: April 15, 2025
- Second payment: June 16, 2025 (adjusted since June 15 is a Sunday)
- Third payment: September 15, 2025
- Fourth payment: January 15, 2026
Staying on top of these deadlines helps avoid interest charges and penalties for underpayment.