Tax Deadlines and Key Dates to Know

Tax deadlines aren't suggestions. Filing or paying late can lead to penalties and interest that add up in a hurry. Knowing the calendar ahead of time lets you gather your documents, ask questions, and file calmly instead of scrambling at the last minute.

This is an independent guide and not affiliated with Intuit or the IRS. Always confirm the exact dates for the current year, since they can shift.

For most individual taxpayers, the federal return is due in the spring, traditionally around April 15. This is the date by which you need to file your return and pay any tax owed. When the 15th lands on a weekend or a holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day.

Early in the year, keep an eye on your mailbox and inbox for the forms you need:

• W-2 forms from employers, generally sent by the end of January.
• Many 1099 forms, also due to recipients around late January or into February.
• Other statements, like mortgage interest and investment summaries.

Having these in hand is what lets you actually file.

If you file Form 4868 for an extension, your filing deadline typically moves to mid-October. Just remember that an extension only extends the time to file, not the time to pay. Any tax owed is still due by the spring deadline, so estimate and pay then to steer clear of extra charges.

People with income that isn't subject to withholding, like the self-employed, often make quarterly estimated payments. These fall on a set schedule spread across the year. If this applies to you, mark each due date, since missing them can lead to an underpayment penalty even if you pay in full later.

The smartest habit is to aim to finish well before any deadline. Filing early gives you time to handle a missing form, fix an error, or get help if a question comes up. It also means a refund reaches you sooner. Treat the deadline as the last possible day, not the target.