Important Tax Dates 2025

Never miss a tax deadline. Track key dates with countdown timers and get clear guidance on exactly what to do.

Important Notice

Deadlines may be postponed for federally declared disaster areas. Weekend and holiday adjustments are applied automatically.

Check IRS disaster relief updates

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IRS starts accepting e-file returns

Most taxpayersAll taxpayers
Usually late January (varies each year)

This is when the IRS begins accepting and processing individual returns electronically.

Filing early can speed up refunds if you have all your documents.

If you claim EITC/ACTC, refunds are held until mid-February by law.

What to do

  • •Confirm you have all expected tax forms
  • •E-file and choose direct deposit if expecting a refund
  • •If you claim EITC/ACTC, check refund timing guidance

What you need

  • □SSNs/ITINs for you and dependents
  • □All income documents (W-2, 1099s, etc.)
  • □Bank routing/account number for direct deposit
  • □Prior-year AGI (often required for identity verification when e-filing)

If you miss it

  • ⚠No penalty; it's just the opening of e-file season
  • ⚠Filing later increases the risk you'll be near the deadline

Never Miss a Deadline

Add all tax deadlines to your calendar at once. Compatible with Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, Outlook, and more.

Understanding Tax Deadlines

Staying on top of tax deadlines is crucial for avoiding penalties and managing your finances effectively. The U.S. tax system operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, which means different types of taxpayers have different deadlines throughout the year.

Key Tax Dates to Remember

The most important date for most taxpayers is April 15 (or the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday), which is when individual tax returns are due for the previous calendar year. If you can't file by this date, you can request an automatic 6-month extension, moving your filing deadline to October 15.

Estimated Tax Payments

Self-employed individuals, freelancers, and business owners typically need to make quarterly estimated tax payments. These are due on April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. Making these payments on time helps you avoid underpayment penalties.

Extensions vs. Payment Deadlines

It's important to understand that a filing extension extends the time to file your return, not the time to pay what you owe. If you expect to owe taxes, you should estimate and pay by the original April deadline to minimize penalties and interest charges.