Tax Filing Deadlines

Understanding tax filing deadlines is essential for effective tax planning and administration. Meeting these deadlines helps avoid penalties and ensures compliance, whether for individuals, corporations, or partnerships. Staying organized with these dates can save money and reduce stress during tax season.

1. April 15 - Individual income tax return deadline (Form 1040)

   • This is the primary deadline for individuals to file their federal income tax returns.
   • Failure to file by this date may result in penalties and interest on any unpaid taxes.
   • Taxpayers can request an extension, but any taxes owed must still be paid by this date to avoid penalties.

2. March 15 - S Corporation and Partnership tax return deadline

   • S Corporations and Partnerships must file their tax returns by this date using Form 1120S or Form 1065, respectively.
   • This deadline is crucial for ensuring that income is reported accurately to shareholders and partners.
   • Extensions can be requested, but any tax liabilities must be settled by the original deadline.

3. April 15 - C Corporation tax return deadline (for calendar year filers)

   • C Corporations must file their tax returns using Form 1120 by this date if they operate on a calendar year basis.
   • Timely filing is essential to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
   • Corporations can apply for an extension, but estimated tax payments must be made by the original deadline.

4. January 31 - Deadline for employers to send W-2 forms to employees

   • Employers must provide W-2 forms to employees by this date, detailing their earnings and tax withholdings for the previous year.
   • This deadline is critical for employees to accurately file their individual tax returns.
   • Failure to provide W-2s on time can result in penalties for employers.

5. October 15 - Extended deadline for individual tax returns

   • This is the final deadline for individuals who filed for an extension to submit their tax returns.
   • Taxpayers must ensure that all tax liabilities are settled by this date to avoid further penalties.
   • Extensions do not extend the time to pay taxes owed, which must be paid by April 15.

6. September 15 - Extended deadline for S Corporations and Partnerships

   • This is the final deadline for S Corporations and Partnerships that filed for an extension to submit their tax returns.
   • It is important for these entities to meet this deadline to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.
   • Any taxes owed must be paid by the original March 15 deadline.

7. April 15 - First quarter estimated tax payment due date

   • Taxpayers who expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes must make their first estimated tax payment by this date.
   • This payment helps to avoid underpayment penalties throughout the year.
   • Estimated payments are based on expected income, deductions, and credits.

8. June 15 - Second quarter estimated tax payment due date

   • This is the deadline for the second estimated tax payment for the current tax year.
   • Taxpayers should assess their income and adjust payments accordingly to avoid penalties.
   • Timely payments help maintain compliance with tax obligations.

9. September 15 - Third quarter estimated tax payment due date

   • Taxpayers must make their third estimated tax payment by this date to stay on track with their tax obligations.
   • This payment is crucial for those who have fluctuating income or are self-employed.
   • Accurate estimation of income is important to avoid underpayment penalties.

10. January 15 - Fourth quarter estimated tax payment due date

    • This is the final deadline for making estimated tax payments for the previous tax year.
    • Taxpayers should ensure that their total estimated payments meet the required thresholds to avoid penalties.
    • This payment is particularly important for self-employed individuals and those with significant non-wage income.