Tax Deadline Extended for Individuals

March 19, 2021:

The Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service announced on March 17th that the federal income tax filing due date for individuals for the 2020 tax year will be automatically extended from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021. The IRS commissioner offered the following guidance on IRS.gov:

“This continues to be a tough time for many people, and the IRS wants to continue to do everything possible to help taxpayers navigate the unusual circumstances related to the pandemic, while also working on important tax administration responsibilities,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “Even with the new deadline, we urge taxpayers to consider filing as soon as possible, especially those who are owed refunds. Filing electronically with direct deposit is the quickest way to get refunds, and it can help some taxpayers more quickly receive any remaining stimulus payments they may be entitled to.”

IRS.gov also shares these key notes and changes for this tax season and amendments to accommodate the pandemic conditions:

  • Individual taxpayers can postpone federal income tax payments for the 2020 tax year due on April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed. This postponement applies to individual taxpayers, including individuals who pay self-employment tax.
  • Penalties, interest and additions to tax will begin to accrue on any remaining unpaid balances as of May 17, 2021. Individual taxpayers will automatically avoid interest and penalties on the taxes paid by May 17.
  • Individual taxpayers do not need to file any forms or call the IRS to qualify for this automatic federal tax filing and payment relief. Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file beyond the May 17 deadline can request a filing extension until Oct. 15 by filing Form 4868 through their tax professional or by using the Free File link on IRS.gov.
  • Filing Form 4868 gives taxpayers until October 15 to file their 2020 tax return but does not grant an extension of time to pay taxes due. Taxpayers should pay their federal income tax due by May 17, 2021, to avoid interest and penalties.
  • This relief does not apply to estimated tax payments that are due on April 15, 2021. These payments are still due on April 15.

It is important to note the final point in this list, and submit estimated tax payments as scheduled if applicable to avoid penalties. We urge clients with questions regarding these changes to reach out to their CPA, and we are happy to collaborate to streamline tax strategy efforts.