Tax Tip 2020-106: Important things all extension filers should remember

Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sent this bulletin at 08/20/2020 11:18 AM EDT

IRS Tax Tips

August 20, 2020

Issue Number: Tax Tip 2020-106

Important things all extension filers should remember

October 15 is almost here. That’s the last day to file for most people who requested an extension for their 2019 tax return. These taxpayers can file any time before Thursday, Oct. 15 if they have all their required tax documents. They can also pay part or all of their taxes anytime on IRS.gov.

Here are some key reminders for extension filers.

Use IRS Free File. Nearly everyone can e-file their tax return for free through IRS Free File. The program is available on IRS.gov now through October 15. E-filing is easy, safe and the most accurate way for people to file their taxes.

File to get a refund. Anyone due a refund should file as soon as possible and use direct deposit to get their tax refund electronically deposited for free into their financial account. There is no penalty for filing a late return for people who are due a refund.

Pay tax balance as soon as possible. The deadline to pay 2019 income taxes was July 15, 2020. Taxpayers can check their account balance or view payment options online. Those who owe and can’t pay their balance in full should pay as much as they can to reduce interest and penalties for late payment. Pay taxes online for free from a checking or savings account with IRS Direct Pay.

File by the deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Taxpayers should file by Thursday, October.15, 2020 to avoid a failure-to-file penalty.

What taxpayers should do about a missed deadline. Anyone who did not request an extension by this year’s July 15 deadline should file and pay as soon as possible. This will stop additional interest and penalties from adding up.

More time for the military. Members of the military and others serving in a combat zone get more time to file. These taxpayers typically have until at least 180 days after they leave the combat zone to both file returns and pay any taxes due.

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Tax Tip 2020-106: Important things all extension filers should remember

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Issue Number: Tax Tip 2020-106