It’s Tax Day—have you filed your tax return? Here’s what you need to know about filing your return on tax day including when and where to file (and whether you need to file at all).
If you plan to file your federal income tax return today, you’re not late—yet. If your return is in good shape, you still have time to submit it by the deadline.Extension
If you’ve clicked over hoping that I’ll offer you the tax prep equivalent of magic beans, I’ll stop you right now—that doesn’t exist. If you’re not ready to file your return, there’s no need to scramble—simply file for an extension.
Some folks don’t have to file for an extension, as they’re granted automatically:
U.S. citizens and resident aliens who live and work outside of the U.S. and Puerto Rico get an automatic two-month extension to file their tax returns. Tax payments are still due on April 18.
Members of the military on duty outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico also receive an automatic two-month extension to file. Those serving in combat zones have up to 180 days after they leave the combat zone to file returns and pay any taxes due. Details are available in Pub 3, Armed Forces’ Tax Guide.
Taxpayers in some states affected by natural disasters also have extra time to file. You can find details on the IRS Tax Relief in Disaster Situations page.
But say it with me—an extension to file is not an extension to pay taxes.Do You Need To File?
You can figure out whether you need to file by checking out this chart. If your gross income is above the threshold for your age and filing status, you should file a federal income tax return. This means that most individual taxpayers with income of less than $12,950 ($25,900 for a married couple filing jointly) are not required to file a federal tax return.
