Tax Deadline 2025: The 2025 tax season is now reaching its final days, and the deadline to file your federal tax return is Tuesday, April 15. Many people have already filed their taxes, but others are still waiting.
If you’re one of those who haven’t filed yet, and you owe taxes, it’s important to act fast. Filing late or not paying on time can lead to big penalties and added interest. Waiting even one day past the deadline can be counted as a full month late by the IRS.
If you’re owed a refund, you’re in luck. The IRS won’t charge you a penalty for filing late. But you still won’t get your money until you file. Also, you only have three years to claim your refund. If you don’t do it within that time, the IRS says you’ll lose the right to get your money back. So even if there’s no punishment, it’s better to file sooner than later.
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Tax Deadline 2025: Penalties for Filing or Paying Late
If you owe taxes and miss the deadline, the penalties begin right away. The IRS gives a clear warning: “The date we start charging interest varies by penalty type. Interest increases the amount owed until you pay your balance in full.” So the longer you wait, the more you’ll owe in the end.
There are two types of penalties. One is for filing your tax return late. That one is 5% of the unpaid taxes for every month you’re late. If you wait too long, the maximum penalty can reach 25% of what you owe. And if you take more than 60 days to file your return, you’ll face a minimum penalty of $510, or 100% of your unpaid tax—whichever is less, according to Turbo Tax.
The second type of penalty is for paying late. This penalty is smaller, just 0.5% of the unpaid tax each month. But over time, it also adds up and can go up to 25% of what you owe. This is on top of the interest the IRS charges, which is currently at a 7% yearly rate.
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Extensions Help with Filing
If you need more time to file your return, you can request an extension, and the IRS will give you until October 15. But this only helps with filing the paperwork—it doesn’t delay your payment. If you owe taxes, you still have to pay them by April 15. If you don’t, interest and penalties will start building up from that original due date.
Some people might qualify for extra time without asking. For example, if you live outside the country or have been affected by a natural disaster, you may automatically get more time. Still, even in those cases, paying on time is key to avoiding extra costs.
The IRS knows taxes can be confusing and offers help on its website through the “Let us help you” portal. If you need personal help, there are also certified tax professionals across the country who can guide you, though they may charge a fee for their service.
