Tax Day 2025 Deadline Looms as IRS Urges Last-Minute Filers to Act

With only hours left, taxpayers must file returns or request extensions to avoid penalties, while disaster-affected states get extended deadlines.

The federal tax filing deadline for 2024 returns is April 15, 2025, with an option to request a six-month extension until October 15 using Form 4868.
Residents in disaster-affected states, including Florida and Georgia, have extended deadlines until May 1, while Tennessee and Arkansas residents have until November 3.
The IRS recommends electronic filing to reduce errors, expedite refunds, and access free tools like IRS Free File and Direct File for eligible taxpayers.
Failing to file by the deadline without an extension incurs steep penalties, with failure-to-file penalties significantly higher than failure-to-pay penalties.
IRS operational challenges, including staff cuts and internal conflicts linked to DOGE policies, are raising concerns about service delays during this tax season.