As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the IRS extended the federal income tax filing deadline to July 15th. All taxpayers also have until July 15th to make any federal income tax payments that were originally due on April 15th, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed.
You do not need to file any additional forms to take advantage of the automatic filing and payment extensions. However, taxpayers expecting a refund should file electronically, and if eligible, should consider using Free File to do so. The benefits of filing electronically include:
It is available online and can be completed from home.
Taxpayers can file online using tax software from the comforts of their home even if they do not qualify for Free File. The bottom line is that filing electronically is much more convenient than filling out and mailing paper tax forms.
It is safe and secure.
Electronic filing is safe and secure. It uses modern encryption technology to protect tax returns. The IRS continues to work with states and tax industry leaders to protect tax returns from tax-related identity theft. This effort has helped with the implementation of safeguards that make electronic tax filing a safe and secure option.
It is accurate and easy.
Filing electronically using online tax software helps taxpayers file a complete and accurate tax return. Taxpayers who file electronically will receive an acknowledgement from the IRS telling them their return is accepted. If a return is rejected, the acknowledgement says why the IRS rejected the tax return.
It may be free.
If you made less than $69,000 in 2019, then you may qualify to file your taxes for free through the IRS Free File program. Free File members provide access to their online tax preparation software at no cost to taxpayers under the program. is available for eligible taxpayers where they can use online software to file electronically for free. Another option, Free File Fillable Forms, is available to all taxpayers regardless of income.
People who file electronically receive refunds faster.
When taxpayers file electronically and choose direct deposit for their refund, in most cases they receive their refund in less than 21 days. However, if they mail a paper tax return, the refund can take six weeks or longer.
Taxpayers who owe taxes should file by the due date and pay as soon as possible. Payments can be scheduled electronically online, They can schedule their payment electronically online, by phone, or using their mobile device and the IRS2Go app. Paying as much as possible minimizes any interest and penalties.
For more information, see the following resources:
COVID Tax Tip 2020-52 #IRSTaxTip
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