October 15 is the filing deadline for taxpayers who requested an extension for their 2018 tax return. However, those who have an extension should mark this coming Tuesday, Oct. 15 as the deadline to file.
While the deadline is just around the corner, there are still things these taxpayers can remember to make sure they file a complete and accurate return. Here are a few tips and reminders for taxpayers who have not yet filed:
Try IRS Free File or e-file.Taxpayers cane-filetheir tax return for free throughIRS Free File. The program is available on IRS.gov through Oct. 15. IRS e-file is easy, safe and the most accurate way to file taxes.
File by Oct. 15.Taxpayers with extensions should file their tax returns by Tuesday, Oct. 15. If they owe, they should pay as much as possible to reduce interest and penalties.IRS Direct Payallows individuals to securely pay from their checking or savings accounts. These taxpayers can consider aninstallment agreement, which allows them to pay over time.
There is more time for the military.Military members and those serving in a combat zone generallyget more time to file. These taxpayers typically have until at least 180 days after they leave the combat zone to both file returns and pay any taxes due.
There is also more time in certain disaster areas.People who have an extension and live or work in a disaster area often have more time to file. Thedisaster relief pageon IRS.gov has more information.
Taxpayers owed a refund should use Direct Deposit.The fastest way for taxpayers to get their refund is to combinedirect depositand e-file.
There are IRS online payment options for taxpayers who owe.Taxpayers who requested an extension should have paid the tax they owed by the deadline back in April. Taxpayers who find they still owe taxes can pay them withIRS Direct Pay. It’s the simple, quick and free way to pay from a checking or savings account. For other payment options, taxpayers can visit thePaying Your Taxespage on IRS.gov.
Keep a copy of your tax return. Taxpayers should keep a copy of their tax return and all supporting documents for at least three years.
Taxpayers can view their account information.Individual taxpayers can go toIRS.gov/accountand login to view their balance, payment history, pay their taxes and access tax records throughGet Transcript. Before setting up an account, taxpayers should reviewSecure Access: How to Register for Certain Online Self-Help Toolsto make sure they have the information needed to verify their identities.
