Why do so many taxpayers scramble in April when the IRS calendar is published months in advance? Understanding when you can file taxes for 2025 and knowing the key IRS deadlines could be the difference between a smooth refund and late penalties.
With over 74% of Americans reporting tax filing as stressful (Anytime Estimate), getting ahead this 2025 tax season is a smart move—especially for business owners juggling multiple forms, filings, and extensions. In this article, go through everything you need to know, right down to the date.
When Does the 2025 Tax Season Start and End?
What date can you file taxes in 2025?
The IRS will begin accepting 2024 federal income tax returns on January 27, 2025, officially opening the 2025 tax season. That’s your green light to file.
If you're expecting a tax refund, filing early gives you the upper hand. It speeds up processing, especially if you file electronically and select direct deposit—the fastest way to get your money, often within 21 days.
Filing early in the filing season also protects you from identity fraud. The Internal Revenue Service flags duplicate filings, so beating scammers to the punch is smart planning.
When is the last day to file taxes in 2025?
April 15 is the deadline—mark it on your calendar. That’s the official Tax Day for your 2024 tax return, unless the IRS announces a change due to a wildfire, natural disaster, or holiday (always check for updates).
Need more time to file? Submit Form 4868 by April 15 to get an automatic extension until October 15, 2025. But remember—this extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay any taxes owed. You must pay an estimated amount by April 15 to avoid penalty and interest.
What Are the Key 2025 Tax Deadlines for Individuals and Businesses?
What is the federal tax filing calendar for 2025?
Here’s your key date rundown for the 2025 tax season—don’t leave it to memory, plug these into your schedule:
For individuals and sole proprietors:
- Jan 15, 2025 – Final quarterly payment for 2024 tax year
- Jan 27, 2025 – IRS opens tax filing for federal income tax returns
- April 15, 2025 – Final day to file your 2024 income tax return, make IRA/HSA contributions, and pay 1st quarter 2025 estimated taxes
- October 15, 2025 – Final day to file if you filed an extension
For businesses (including S Corps and partnerships):
- March 17, 2025 – Deadline for income tax returns (Form 1065 or 1120-S) for pass-through entities
- April 15, 2025 – Deadline for C corporations (Form 1120)
Your employer must send out W-2 forms by January 31, 2025. The same goes for most 1099 forms from financial institutions or clients.
What happens if you miss the deadline to file taxes?
If you miss the deadline to file and owe federal tax, expect:
- A failure-to-file penalty of 5% per month (max 25%)
- A failure-to-pay penalty of 0.5% per month on unpaid taxes
- Daily interest charges that automatically accrue
If you’re owed a tax refund, you won’t face penalties—but you only have three years (until 2028) to claim it. After that, it goes to the U.S. Treasury. Don’t wait that long.
Further Reading: Learn about the penalties for failing to file your taxes on time
How Do Estimated Tax Payments Work in 2025?
What are the quarterly estimated tax due dates for 2025?
If you're self-employed or own an S Corp, you’re expected to make quarterly federal income tax payments. Here are the 2025 tax payment due dates:
- Q1: April 15, 2025
- Q2: June 16, 2025
- Q3: September 15, 2025
- Q4: January 15, 2026
Missing any of these can trigger penalties, even if you plan to settle at tax season 2025. So, keep an eye on the calendar and pay on time.
How do you estimate your tax liability for 2025?
To estimate your 2025 tax liability, use IRS Publication 505 or Form 1040-ES. Here’s how to stay compliant and avoid penalties:
- Pay at least 90% of your total 2025 tax bill, or
- Pay 100% of your 2024 tax (or 110% if your AGI was over $150K for 2023)
Your accountant or tax preparation software should help calculate these. If you're unsure, round up slightly—overpaying now can get you a tax refund later.
Further Reading: Discover how to calculate and pay estimated taxes
What If You Need More Time? Extension Options and Guidelines
How do you file a tax extension for 2025?
To get an automatic extension, submit Form 4868 by April 15. It gives you until October 15, 2025, to file your individual tax return.
But don’t confuse the extension with a payment delay. You still must pay your federal income tax by April 15—even if your paperwork isn’t ready. Failing to pay any taxes owed can lead to interest and a penalty.
You can file an extension electronically, through your tax software or a professional. Just make sure it’s done by the April deadline.
Can you file late and still get a refund?
Yes—if the IRS owes you, you’ve got up to three years from the original tax day to file. So, for 2024 tax returns, you have until April 15, 2028, to claim your federal tax refund.
If you miss that window, the money stays with the IRS. File on time—even if it’s just to get what you’re owed.
Further Reading: Track your tax refund status with the Where's My Refund IRS tool
Key Takeaways
- The IRS starts accepting 2024 tax returns on January 27, 2025.
- April 15, 2025 is the official Tax Day deadline.
- You can request an extension to file until October 15, 2025.
- Quarterly estimated tax payments are due throughout the year.
- Filing early and electronic filing with direct deposit speeds up your refund.
How can Taxfyle help?
Finding an accountant to manage your bookkeeping and file taxes is a big decision. Luckily, you don't have to handle the search on your own.
At Taxfyle, we connect small businesses with licensed, experienced CPAs or EAs in the US. We handle the hard part of finding the right tax professional by matching you with a Pro who has the right experience to meet your unique needs and will manage your bookkeeping and file taxes for you.
