The federal tax return deadline for most taxpayers in the United States is April 15 each year. For 2024 tax returns filed in 2025, the due date is April 15, 2025. If April 15 falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the deadline is moved to the next business day. Taxes must be paid by midnight on the due date in the taxpayer's time zone. If a taxpayer requests an extension by filing IRS Form 4868, they receive an automatic six-month extension to file their return, making the extended deadline October 15. However, this extension only applies to filing the return, not to paying taxes owed, which are still due on the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Additionally, for self- employed individuals or those making estimated tax payments, quarterly deadlines are typically January 15, April 15, June 15, and September 15. To summarize key U.S. tax deadlines for 2024 returns:
- Tax Day (filing and payment due): April 15, 2025
- Extension filing deadline: October 15, 2025
- Quarterly estimated payments: January 15, April 15, June 15, September 15, 2025
These deadlines can shift due to weekends, holidays, disaster relief, and other exceptions.
