As the 2025 tax filing deadline nears, millions of Americans are preparing to submit their federal income tax returns for the 2024 tax year. The official IRS tax deadline is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. According to the Internal Revenue Service, more than 140 million tax returns are expected to be filed this season.
Still Haven’t Filed Your Taxes for 2024?
You're not alone. As of April 4, the IRS had already received over 101 million individual returns. That leaves a large number of taxpayers still working on their documents or exploring the option to file a tax extension.
A recent Harris Poll, conducted on behalf of Origin—a financial management platform—found that 41% of Americans have delayed filing their taxes this year. Among younger generations like Gen Z and millennials, financial stress was the leading reason for the delay.
What Is a Tax Extension and Who Needs It?
A tax extension gives you an extra six months to file your federal tax return, moving the deadline to October 15, 2025. But don’t be mistaken—this extension only applies to filing, not paying taxes. You must still pay your estimated taxes by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
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Tax experts recommend an extension if you haven’t received all your tax documents, or if you're rushing and risk making mistakes. Taking extra time can help ensure a more accurate return.
How to File a Tax Extension for 2025
If you're wondering how to file a tax extension, the IRS provides several easy methods:
1. IRS Free File – Submit Form 4868 electronically via the IRS Free File system.
2. Pay Online with Extension Option – Use the IRS online payment portal and select “extension” when making a tax payment by credit card, debit card, or bank transfer.
3. Form 4868 by Mail – You can also download and send Form 4868 by mail or file through an IRS-authorized e-filing partner.
For businesses, the correct form to file is Form 7004.
Disaster Relief: Extended Tax Deadlines for 2025 in Some States
Due to natural disasters in 2024, certain regions automatically qualify for extended tax deadlines. Here’s a breakdown of the current IRS relief:
- California wildfire victims: Deadline extended to October 15, 2025.
- Hurricane Helene & Milton victims in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, Alabama, and parts of Tennessee and Virginia: Deadline extended to May 1, 2025.
- Severe weather in Kentucky: New filing deadline is November 3, 2025.
- Other relief areas include Juneau, Alaska, and Chaves County, New Mexico, both with a May 1, 2025 deadline.
Taxpayers in affected areas can check the IRS Disaster Relief page or call 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals) or 1-800-829-4933 (for businesses) for assistance.
Pros and Cons of Filing a Tax Extension
According to Tyler Horn, Head of Planning at Origin, there are more pros than cons to filing an extension.
“If you rush, you can make mistakes,” Horn says. “It’s better to take your time and file correctly than to submit an error-filled return.”
Extensions also benefit freelancers, self-employed individuals, and business owners who may not have received all relevant tax forms or who need time to organize income and deduction records.
However, taxpayers must still pay what they owe by April 15, regardless of when they file, to avoid IRS penalties and interest.
2025 Tax Filing Season: Quick Summary
- Federal Tax Deadline: April 15, 2025
- Extension Filing Deadline: Also April 15, 2025
- Extended Filing Deadline with Form 4868: October 15, 2025
- Payment Due Date: April 15, 2025 (even if you file later)
- IRS Disaster Relief Extensions: Available in 12+ states due to wildfires, hurricanes, and severe weather
- IRS Forms to Know: Form 4868 (individuals), Form 7004 (businesses)
Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic, Just Prepare
If you’re not ready to file your 2024 taxes by April 15, filing a tax extension online or through your tax preparer is a smart move. You’ll avoid rushed errors and give yourself peace of mind—just remember to pay your tax bill by the deadline.
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