Overview
- April 15 marks the federal tax filing and payment deadline for most U.S. taxpayers, with penalties for late filing and payment accruing monthly.
- The IRS emphasizes filing on time, even if the full tax balance cannot be paid, to avoid the higher failure-to-file penalty of 5% per month.
- Payment plans are available for taxpayers unable to pay in full, including short-term plans for balances under $100,000 and long-term plans for balances under $50,000.
- Special filing extensions are granted to military personnel stationed abroad, expatriates, and residents of federally declared disaster areas.
- Free filing options, such as the IRS Direct File program and approved software, are accessible to taxpayers with simpler tax situations or lower incomes.