Missed the Tax Deadline 2025? Here’s What to Do Now

The April 15, 2025 tax deadline has passed, but the IRS is encouraging taxpayers who missed it to file their return as soon as possible. Whether you owe taxes or expect a refund, taking action now can reduce penalties or help you claim money the government may owe you.

File and Pay Immediately to Limit Penalties

If you missed the deadline and owe taxes, you should still file a tax return right away. The longer you wait, the more you’ll pay in penalties and interest.

Even if you can’t afford to pay your full tax bill, the IRS recommends:

Filing your return immediately
Paying as much as you can now
Setting up a payment plan to handle the rest

You can apply for an installment agreement online through IRS.gov.

IRS Penalty Relief May Be Available

Some taxpayers may qualify for first-time penalty relief if they’ve filed and paid on time over the past three years. To see if you’re eligible, review the IRS’s Administrative Penalty Relief guidance.

Online IRS Payment Options

The IRS offers secure electronic payment methods, including:

IRS Direct Pay (from a checking or savings account)
Debit/credit card or digital wallet
The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)
IRS Online Account for viewing balances and scheduling payments

These tools provide instant confirmation and allow you to track your payments.

Owed a Refund? File ASAP to Claim It

If you’re due a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late—but waiting too long could mean losing your refund entirely. The IRS estimates that nearly 1 million taxpayers fail to claim refunds each year.

By filing now, you may still receive:

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Other refundable credits you qualify for

Refunds can be tracked using the Where’s My Refund? tool on IRS.gov, the IRS2Go mobile app, or by calling 800-829-1954.

Still Need to File? Use IRS Free File Through Oct. 20

The IRS Free File program remains available through October 20, 2025, allowing eligible taxpayers to file their federal return online at no cost.

Some taxpayers may also qualify for IRS Direct File, a new simplified filing tool currently available in 25 states.

Need Help? Find a Trusted Tax Professional

If you’re unsure how to proceed, the IRS recommends working with a certified tax preparer. Use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers to find professionals with IRS-recognized credentials.

Know Your Rights as a Taxpayer

Every taxpayer has rights under federal law. The Taxpayer Bill of Rights outlines 10 key protections, such as the right to privacy, quality service, and appeals.

Learn more in IRS Publication 1: Your Rights as a Taxpayer.

Bottom line: If you missed the 2025 tax deadline, don’t wait. Filing now can reduce penalties, help you claim a refund, and keep you in good standing with the IRS.

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