Don’t Miss the April 15 Tax Deadline: File Smart with IRS Tools

With the federal tax deadline of April 15 fast approaching, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reminds taxpayers there’s still time to file your federal income tax return electronically and receive your refund faster—especially if you opt for direct deposit.

Filing your tax return online isn’t just more convenient—it’s also safer, quicker, and more accurate thanks to built-in checks in the IRS-approved software.

Let’s walk you through free IRS filing tools, refund tips, and payment options if you owe taxes or need more time.

Why File Electronically?

Electronic filing reduces the chances of tax return errors as the system automatically checks for common mistakes and prompts you to complete any missing sections. Plus, when you choose direct deposit, most refunds are issued within 21 days.

If your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) was $84,000 or less in 2024, you can file your federal return for free using IRS Free File.

✅ IRS Free File Options:

Both options are open through October 15 if you request an extension.

New in 2024: IRS Direct File

The IRS has introduced Direct File, a free online tool available in 25 states, allowing eligible taxpayers to file their 2024 federal returns directly with the IRS.

Check your eligibility and see if your state is on the list by visiting the Direct File website.

Free In-Person Tax Help: VITA and TCE

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free, in-person tax help from IRS-certified volunteers. These programs are ideal for:

  • People who make $64,000 or less

  • Persons with disabilities

  • Limited English-speaking taxpayers

  • Seniors

Find a nearby site at the IRS VITA/TCE locator tool.

Military & Veterans: MilTax

The MilTax program by the Department of Defense offers free federal and up to three state tax return filings for:

  • Active duty military members

  • Some veterans

No income limit applies, making it a powerful benefit for service members and their families.

Track Your Refund with “Where’s My Refund?”

Wondering when your money will hit your account? Use the Where’s My Refund? tool or download the IRS2Go mobile app to track your refund 24/7.

You’ll need:

  • Your Social Security number

  • Your filing status

  • Your exact refund amount

Refund status updates usually appear within 24 hours of e-filing (or 4 weeks for paper returns).

If You Owe Taxes, Pay Before April 15

If you owe taxes, avoid late fees and interest by filing your return and paying the amount due by April 15. Here are your IRS-approved payment options:

Electronic Payment Options:

Other Payment Options:

  • Check or Money Order – Payable to United States Treasury

  • Cash at Retail Partner – How to pay with cash

Can’t Pay in Full? Set Up a Payment Plan

If you’re unable to pay your full tax bill, the IRS recommends paying what you can and applying for an online payment plan.

Payment Plan Options:

  • Short-Term Plan: Owe less than $100,000? Get up to 180 days to pay.

  • Long-Term Installment Plan: Owe less than $50,000? Make monthly payments for up to 10 years.

Under a payment plan, the failure-to-pay penalty is cut in half, though interest continues to accrue.

Need More Time? File an Extension

You can get an automatic 6-month filing extension (until Oct 15) by:

  • Filing Form 4868 electronically or mailing it by April 15

  • Making a payment and selecting “Extension” as the reason

Note: A filing extension does NOT delay your tax payment. To avoid penalties, estimate and pay what you owe by April 15.

Special Rules: Military, Disaster Zones, Expats

If you’re:

  • Serving in a combat zone,

  • Living abroad,

  • Or in a declared disaster area,

You may qualify for automatic extensions. Check out this IRS page to see if these special tax deadline rules apply to you.

Final Tips: Use IRS.gov for Help

The fastest and most reliable source of IRS updates is their official site:
IRS.gov Let Us Help You Page

Whether you need to file, pay, or check refund status, IRS.gov is available 24/7 with everything you need.

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