When do I have to file my taxes?

2026 federal tax deadlines (2025 tax year)

Who must file at all

You must file if gross income exceeds the standard deduction for your status. Self-employment income above $400 also triggers a filing requirement regardless of total income. Even when not required, file anyway if you had taxes withheld (you'll get a refund) or qualify for refundable credits like the EITC or Child Tax Credit.

Penalties for missing the deadline

Failure to file: 5% of unpaid tax per month, max 25%. Failure to pay: 0.5% per month, max 25%. Interest accrues on top. The failure-to-file penalty is 10× larger than failure-to-pay, always file (or extend) on time even if you can't pay in full.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an extension give me more time to pay?

No. The extension only extends the filing deadline. Estimate what you owe and pay by April 15; underpayment triggers penalties and interest even with a valid extension.

When is the deadline if April 15 is a weekend?

The deadline moves to the next business day. April 15, 2026 is a Wednesday so it stands. State holidays (Patriots' Day, Emancipation Day) sometimes push it for affected states.

What if I'm owed a refund and don't file?

You forfeit the refund after 3 years. The IRS holds about $1 billion/year in unclaimed refunds because non-filers never claim them.

Sources

• When to file your tax return , Internal Revenue Service. Verified May 1, 2026.