The IRS has confirmed that the 2025 tax filing deadline falls on April 15, 2026. This gives taxpayers roughly one year to gather documents, file returns, and settle any tax bills with the federal government.
Missing the April 15 deadline triggers penalties and interest charges. The IRS assesses a failure-to-file penalty of 5 percent per month on unpaid taxes, up to 25 percent total. Interest accrues daily at the current federal rate. Filing late costs money even if you expect a refund, since you delay receiving it.
If you cannot pay your full tax bill by April 15, the IRS offers several options. You can request a short-term extension to pay within 120 days. The agency charges a one-time $225 fee for this arrangement, though the fee drops to $32 if you set up an online payment agreement.
For longer-term relief, taxpayers can establish an installment agreement. Monthly payments allow you to spread the balance over several years. The IRS charges setup fees ranging from $31 to $225 depending on the payment method. Standard agreements require full payment within six years. A streamlined installment agreement, available for balances under $50,000, costs just $31 and handles most paperwork automatically.
Offer in Compromise represents another option for those with genuine financial hardship. This settlement allows you to pay less than the full amount owed if the IRS determines you cannot afford to pay in full. However, qualification is strict and the application process takes months.
File your return even if you cannot pay immediately. Filing on time avoids the failure-to-file penalty, which compounds faster than the failure-to-pay penalty. Paying whatever you can, even a partial amount, demonstrates good faith and reduces total interest charges.
The IRS website provides payment tools at