Actions taxpayers should take if they missed April filing and payment deadline
April 16, 2026
from the IRS
Taxpayers who missed the April 15 filing deadline should submit their federal tax return as soon as possible. Those who missed the deadline to file and owe taxes should file as soon as possible to avoid penalties and interest.
Requesting an extension allows for additional time to file but not to pay taxes owed. Interest and penalties will continue to accrue on the owed taxes until the balance is paid in full.
Taxpayers who still need to file for the 2025 tax year can use electronic filing options such as IRS Free File, which is available on IRS.gov through Oct. 15, 2026.
File and pay now to limit penalties and interest charges
If a taxpayer can't afford to pay the full amount of taxes owed, they should still file a tax return and pay as much as possible. The IRS offers options for taxpayers who need help paying their tax bill. For more information, visit the Penalties page on IRS.gov.
Taxpayers may qualify for penalty relief if they have filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other important requirements. For more information, see the Administrative penalty relief page on IRS.gov.
Online payment options
Individuals can pay taxes owed securely through IRS Online Account, IRS Direct Pay, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System or by debit or credit card or digital wallet. Taxpayers may also apply online for a payment plan, including installment agreements. The Business Tax Account allows eligible taxpayers and their designated officials to view tax balances, make payments and see payment history.
Those who pay electronically get immediate confirmation after submitting payment. IRS Direct Pay and the EFTPS allow taxpayers to receive payment email notifications. Find additional payment information on the Make a payment page on IRS.gov.
If a refund is owed, consider filing a tax return
There's no penalty for filing after April 15, if the IRS owes the taxpayer a refund. Taxpayers who choose not to file a tax return because they don't earn enough to meet the filing requirement may miss out on receiving a refund due to potential refundable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.
Choose a trusted tax professional
Taxpayers who have yet to file a tax return might consider getting help from a tax preparer. The IRS provides resources if they need someone to prepare a tax return. The Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications can help taxpayers find tax return preparers with professional certifications recognized by the IRS or who have completed the IRS requirements for the Annual Filing Season Program.