IRS Extends Tax Deadlines for Several States Amid Recent Disasters
Tax Day Approaches as Millions File Returns
As the looming deadline for filing 2024 tax returns approaches, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced automatic extensions for several states affected by natural disasters. Most taxpayers face the April 15 deadline, but certain areas that have experienced significant damage due to storms, flooding, and other disasters will receive additional time to complete their filings.
Overview of Tax Deadlines
The traditional tax filing deadline falls on April 15 each year. However, the IRS has acknowledged the unique circumstances faced by taxpayers in certain regions, offering extensions to alleviate the burden of filing taxes under distressing conditions.
According to IRS data, the agency has processed over 100 million tax returns since it began accepting submissions on January 27 this year, marking a significant engagement with taxpayers as the deadline approaches.
Automatic Extensions for Disaster-Affected States
The IRS has issued deadline extensions for taxpayers residing in several states impacted by natural disasters in recent years. Affected counties may vary by state, and individuals are encouraged to check specific eligibility through the IRS announcement page.
States and Revised Deadlines:
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Tennessee: All residents qualify for extended relief due to severe storms, with the new tax filing deadline set for November 3, 2025. – Alabama, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina: Following Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene’s impact on 2023, taxpayers in these states are granted an extension until May 1, 2025. – Alaska: Residents of Juneau will also have until May 1, 2025, to file after experiencing flooding in August 2024. – New Mexico: Chaves County taxpayers affected by severe storms and flooding in 2024 will now file by May 1, 2025. – Virginia: Various counties in Virginia, impacted by disasters, share the extended deadline of May 1, 2025, although specifics can vary by county.
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California: Following significant wildfires in Los Angeles County, the tax deadline has been pushed back to October 15, 2025. – Kentucky: The IRS has set a new deadline of November 3, 2025, for the entire state after facing severe storms and flooding.
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West Virginia: Residents in specific counties (Boone, Greenbrier, and others) affected by recent storms and flooding have until November 3, 2025, to file their tax returns.
Filing for an Extension
For those who may need additional time beyond the standard deadline, the IRS allows individual taxpayers to request a six-month extension, effectively moving the deadline to October 15. This can be done through the IRS’s Free File tool or by submitting Form 4868. It is essential to note that while extensions provide extra time to file, they do not alter the payment due date; any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties.
Conclusion
With tax season in full swing, affected individuals must remain vigilant about their filing responsibilities. The IRS’s issuance of deadline extensions is a crucial relief for many in states grappling with the aftermath of disasters. Taxpayers are encouraged to check their eligibility for relief measures and ensure they prepare accordingly as the traditional Tax Day approaches. For the most accurate and updated information, taxpayers can refer directly to the IRS’s official guidelines and announcements.
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