Overview
- Most filers must submit 2025 returns by Wednesday, April 15, or file Form 4868 for a six‑month filing extension, but any taxes owed are still due by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
- Average refunds are up about 11% this season to roughly $3,521, helped by last summer’s law that raised the child tax credit, increased the standard deduction, lifted the SALT cap to $40,000, and created new deductions for tips and some overtime pay.
- A January USPS change means processing‑facility postmarks may not match the day you mailed your return, so paper filers should get a free manual postmark at a post office or mail three to five business days early to avoid late‑filing penalties.
- The IRS expanded Direct File and tightened identity and bank‑account verification, and taxpayers who omit deposit details may get a letter to add them; e‑file with direct deposit is typically paid in about 21 days, while paper refunds can take six to eight weeks.
- State deadlines vary this year, with later due dates in places like Oklahoma on April 20, Hawaii on April 21, Delaware, Iowa, and New Mexico on April 30, South Carolina and Virginia on May 1, and Louisiana on May 15.