Tax Day 2023: Last-Minute Filing Tips & What to Know Now

It’s February 2, 2026. For those still working on their 2022 federal income tax returns, the official deadline has passed. However, taxpayers have options if they missed the April 18, 2023 deadline and even now, several years later, understanding those options remains crucial.

The IRS reminds taxpayers who owe tax that amounts not paid by April 18, 2023, are subject to penalties and interest. Filing a return as soon as possible and paying as much as possible can help reduce these charges. Electronic filing options, including IRS Free File, were available through October 16, 2023.

Generally, the federal income tax return deadline is April 15 each year, or the next business day if April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday. Missing this deadline can result in penalties and interest, but the IRS offers several relief programs and payment options.

If you are expecting a refund, there are no penalties or interest charges for filing late. However, filing late will delay your refund and may extend the statute of limitations for audits.

Extensions and Disaster Relief

If a taxpayer knew in advance they couldn’t meet the April 15 deadline, they could request an automatic six-month tax return filing extension. This request had to be submitted by the April 15 deadline.

The IRS also provides automatic tax filing and payment extensions for taxpayers affected by federally declared disasters. Specific extension dates vary by disaster area. For example, taxpayers in most of California were granted an extension until October 16 to file and pay their 2022 taxes.

Members of the armed forces stationed in combat zones may also have extended filing and payment deadlines, depending on when they leave the combat zone.

Filing Options and Resources

For those with little to no income (less than $12,950 for single filers and $25,900 for married couples), filing a return may not be required. However, it may be beneficial to file to claim refundable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit. IRS Free File was available for those with adjusted gross income of $73,000 or less.

The IRS offers several online tools to assist taxpayers, including IRS Direct File, which was available for qualifying taxpayers in 25 states through October 15, 2025. The Interactive Tax Assistant is also available on IRS.gov to answer tax law questions.

What to Do If You Can’t Pay

If you can’t pay your taxes in full, the IRS offers payment plans. It may be wise to consult with a tax professional to determine the best course of action. If you owe taxes, you can review available payment options on the IRS website.

Important Income Sources to Report

Taxpayers should remember to report all sources of income, not just wages from a full-time job. This includes interest on savings, investment income, unemployment income, Social Security benefits, and income from side hustles or freelance work.

Last-Minute Tips

Before submitting a return, it’s crucial to organize all tax documents, including W-2s, 1099s, and any other relevant forms. Proofread the return carefully to avoid errors that could delay processing or trigger an audit.

If you can’t file by the deadline, submit Form 4868 for an automatic six-month extension. Remember that an extension to file is not an extension to pay, and interest and penalties will accrue on any unpaid taxes.

Taxpayers can pay what they owe electronically through IRS.gov, and submitting an electronic payment automatically processes an extension of time to file.