The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has asked taxpayers who asked for an extension to get ahead with filing their return over the summer, with the deadline in October.
According to a notice released on July 22, taxpayers who filed tax extensions are encouraged to consider using IRS Free File, or other resources available on IRS.gov to help them file over the summer—a preferable alternative to waiting until the October deadline. This would reduce the stress and last-minute preparations that come with late filing, give you more time to correct mistakes and help you get your money sooner if you’re due for a refund.
“While taxes may not be at the top of people’s minds during the summer, taking advantage of the resources available at IRS.gov can help individuals avoid a possible deadline crunch later this fall,” the IRS says.
Free filing with the IRS
The IRS has made online tools available to taxpayers at their convenience. With unlimited access to these e-filing tools, qualified taxpayers who requested a tax filing extension are expected to file their tax returns electronically at no cost using the IRS Free File.
This free service is open to taxpayers that have an adjusted gross income of $79,000 or less and can file with a trusted IRS Free File partner.
IRS online services for tax filing
In addition to Free File, the IRS recommends several online tools available 24/7 to assist taxpayers in filing tax returns. Some of them include:
- Interactive tax assistant: a tool used to get answers to individual tax law questions.
- An IRS account: create or sign in to your online IRS account to access your tax records, manage communication preferences, make payments, etc.
- E-filing and e-payment: electronic tax filing and payment are available to ease the tax filing process and reduce penalties and interest if you haven’t filed your taxes yet or owe money.
- Online payment plans: set up payment plans and make payments online at irs.gov/payments,
- Tools to check refund status: find updated information like the status of your tax refund online using the Where’s My Refund? tool.
Other tax considerations by the IRS
Tax extensions for disaster areas
The IRS might extend the filing deadline for victims of natural disasters or taxpayers residing in, and doing business in disaster areas. This would be in addition to the regular extension.
Note that these extensions only cover filing; they do not cover payment delays.
Tax relief for military
The IRS has encouraged taxpayers serving in the military to use MiliTax for tax return preparation and e-filing. This free program does not require an income limit and is available to members of the armed forces and veterans.
Military personnel who are serving abroad can postpone most tax deadlines. Those who qualify are allowed extended time to file and pay their income taxes.
Taxpayers Assistance Centers
The Taxpayers Assistance Center Locator tool is available to help taxpayers who prefer in-person assistance. This online tool can help taxpayers locate the nearest IRS office to them, speak to an expert, ask questions, and access the services available to taxpayers.
Note that visits to an IRS office are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 844-545-5640.
