A copy of an IRS 1040 tax form is seen at an H&R Block office in Miami, Fla., on Dec. 22, 2017. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
With the new year underway, the primary deadline to file 2025 federal income tax returns is fast-approaching.
The last day to file federal taxes and pay any amount owed is April 15, 2026, which lands on a Wednesday this year.
Taxpayers who need more time can request an extension, giving them until Oct. 15, 2026, to file without any penalties.
However, any taxes owed must still be paid by the April cutoff, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) notes online. Failure to pay on time can result in interest and late-payment penalty fees.
When it comes to state tax returns, most states follow the April 15 deadline, but a few—such as Iowa (due April 30) and Louisiana (due May 15)—have later due dates.
Additionally, some states, including Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming, have no state income tax.
Many states also offer online filing portals and extension requests, similar to federal procedures, so taxpayers should verify rules and requirements with their respective state agency.
On Tuesday, the IRS urged taxpayers to get a head start on filing 2025 returns, directing them to the agency's online "Get Ready" section for helpful checklists, updates, and free filing options.
"One of the most important steps taxpayers can take is to access their IRS Individual Online Account," the IRS said. "IRS Individual Online Accounts are available 24/7, to view account information, make payments, manage communication preferences and protect tax information."
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) building in Washington on Jan. 24, 2023. Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images
Refunds are typically issued in less than three weeks for taxpayers who file electronically, but may take longer if a return requires correction or additional review. Refunds for mailed returns can take up to six weeks.
"Many different factors can affect the timing of your refund after we receive your return," the IRS notes online. "Although the IRS issues most refunds in less than 21 days, the IRS cautions taxpayers not to rely on receiving a refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or paying bills."
Most taxpayers can expect refunds to be direct deposited, given that the IRS began phasing out paper tax refund checks on Sept. 30, 2025, in accordance with a presidential executive order aimed at modernizing federal payments.
"For tax year 2025, the IRS will request banking information on all tax returns when filed to issue refunds via direct deposit or electronic funds transfer," the IRS said. "For payments or remittances associated with fees, fines and taxes to the IRS, online payment options are the preferred method."
