Key Tax Deadlines You Need to Know for 2026
Don't miss these important 2026 tax deadlines. From the April filing deadline to extension dates, here's your complete timeline.
Quick Summary
The federal filing deadline for 2025 returns is April 15, 2026. File an extension by that date for an automatic 6-month extension.
The federal income tax filing deadline for 2025 tax returns is April 15, 2026. Missing this date without an extension can result in failure-to-file penalties and interest charges.
2026 Tax Calendar
- January 26, 2026 — IRS begins accepting e-filed returns
- April 15, 2026 — Federal filing deadline for 2025 returns
- April 15, 2026 — Deadline to file for an automatic 6-month extension
- April 15, 2026 — First quarter 2026 estimated tax payment due
- June 15, 2026 — Second quarter estimated tax payment due
- September 15, 2026 — Third quarter estimated tax payment due
- October 15, 2026 — Extended filing deadline
- January 15, 2027 — Fourth quarter 2026 estimated tax payment due
Extensions Give You More Time to File, Not to Pay
Filing Form 4868 gives you until October 15 to submit your return. However, you must still estimate and pay any taxes owed by April 15. An extension avoids the failure-to-file penalty (up to 25% of unpaid taxes) but does not eliminate interest on unpaid balances.
File Early for Faster Refunds
The IRS typically issues refunds within 21 days of accepting an e-filed return when you choose direct deposit. Filing early also reduces your risk of tax-related identity theft, since the IRS rejects duplicate returns.
Start your federal return for free at MyFreeTaxReturn.com. E-filing is the fastest way to get your refund.
Source: IRS Form 4868