What is the standard federal income tax filing deadline for individual returns for the 2025 tax year?
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Explanation
The deadline for filing your 2025 federal income tax return is April 15, 2026. If you need more time, you can file Form 4868 for an automatic 6-month extension to October 15, 2026, but this extends only the filing deadline, NOT the deadline to pay taxes owed. Unpaid taxes accrue penalties and interest from April 15.
Tax preparation professionals recommend gathering all income documents, including W-2s, 1099s, and investment statements, before beginning the tax filing process.