With the 15 April 2026 tax filing deadline approaching, the IRS is reminding last-minute filers to use the free tools and resources available on IRS.gov — including IRS Free File, the Interactive Tax Assistant, and online payment plans. Taxpayers who cannot meet the deadline can request an extension until 15 October, though any tax owed remains due on 15 April.
The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued a release on 9 April 2026, in which it reminded last-minute tax filers of the 15 April deadline. The IRS encourages those who still need to file to use free tools and resources on IRS.gov to file on time or request an extension.
From refund status and getting tax preparation assistance to researching tax law and finding answers to frequently asked questions, IRS.gov offers resources to help individuals and businesses meet the deadline.
For last-minute filers looking for free filing resources, IRS Free File remains an option for qualified taxpayers to file their return.
Taxpayers with questions about the new tax provisions in the One, Big, Beautiful Bill can find eligibility information and guidance on IRS.gov. The site also offers tools to help taxpayers understand how these changes could affect their tax return.
Key IRS.gov resources
- IRS.gov/ITA. The Interactive Tax Assistant asks a series of questions and provides answers on a variety of tax topics based on the taxpayer’s responses.
- Forms and Instructions. Find forms, instructions, and publications that reflect the latest tax changes, along with interactive links for additional help. This includes the new Schedule 1-A, Additional Deductions, used to claim tax deductions related to four major OBBB provisions.
- Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax. This publication explains tax law to help ensure taxpayers pay only the tax they owe.
Get personalised account services and faster refunds
- IRS Individual Online Account. Access tax information 24/7 through a secure IRS Individual Online Account. Taxpayers can view tax account information and transcripts, interact with the IRS, and manage payments, refunds, and communications.
- Direct Deposit. The fastest way to receive a refund. The IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks and encourages taxpayers to choose direct deposit.
Get an extension to file
Taxpayers who cannot file their return by 15 April should request an extension by that date to avoid a failure to file penalty. An approved extension gives taxpayers until 15 October to submit their return. However, any tax owed is still due by 15 April. An extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay. All taxpayers can also use the IRS Free File to request an extension electronically.
Some taxpayers qualify for automatic extensions
- US citizens and resident aliens abroad
- Members of the military on duty outside the United States and Puerto Rico. Those serving in combat zones have at least 180 days after they leave the combat zone to file returns and pay any taxes due. Details are available in Publication 3, Armed Forces’ Tax Guide.
- Taxpayers residing in a federally declared disaster area.
Taxpayers who do not qualify for an automatic extension can request one by the 15 April deadline. They should still pay as much as they can by the deadline to minimise interest and penalties.
Having trouble paying? IRS has options
Taxpayers who owe taxes have several payment options.
Those unable to pay in full by 15 April may qualify for online payment plans, including short- and long-term instalment agreements. The IRS urges taxpayers to file their tax return and pay what they can, even if they cannot pay the full amount owed.
Interest and late-payment penalties will continue to accrue on unpaid balances after 15 April. However, the failure to pay penalty is reduced by half while an instalment agreement is in effect.
Taxpayers can find these resources and more on the Let Us Help You section of IRS.gov, which provides quick access to filing assistance, refund information, payment options, and answers to common questions.
