Last-Minute Tax Filing Tips: Making the Most of April 14th

I am not an accountant, but I know how stressful tax season can be, especially when you're down to the wire. If you're reading this with just one day left before the deadline, take a deep breath—you're not alone, and there's still time to get through this.

Important Deadline Extensions for Disaster-Affected Areas

Before you panic, check if you qualify for an automatic extension due to natural disasters:

• May 1, 2025 deadline: Taxpayers in the entire states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina due to Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton
• May 1, 2025 deadline: Specific counties in Alaska (Juneau), New Mexico (Chaves County), Tennessee, and Virginia due to various natural disasters
• October 15, 2025 deadline: Los Angeles County, California due to January wildfires
• November 3, 2025 deadline: All of Kentucky and several counties in West Virginia due to severe February storms

If you live in these areas, you automatically qualify for these extensions without having to file additional forms. However, if you're not in these areas, your deadline remains April 15th.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Consider an Extension

If you're simply not going to make it by tomorrow, it's okay to give yourself more time. Filing for an extension with Form 4868 gives you until October 15th to submit your completed return. Remember though, this is only an extension to file, not to pay—you'll still need to estimate and pay any taxes owed by April 15th to avoid penalties and interest.

Don't Leave Money on the Table: Maximize Your Deductions

Even when you're rushing, don't shortchange yourself by overlooking potential deductions:

• Charitable contributions you made throughout the year
• Medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of your adjusted gross income
• Mortgage interest that can significantly reduce your tax burden
• State and local taxes (limited to $10,000)
• Retirement contributions that benefit your future and your taxes
• Education expenses that might qualify for deductions

We All Make Mistakes: Double-Check These Common Errors

When racing against the clock, it's easy to miss things. Give your return a second look for these frequent issues:

• Missing or incorrect Social Security numbers
• Math calculation errors
• Forgetting to sign and date your return
• Using the wrong filing status
• Neglecting to report all income

File Electronically to Ease Your Mind

E-filing can be a lifesaver when time is short:

• Faster processing when every hour counts
• Immediate confirmation so you can stop worrying
• Reduced chance of errors with tax software guidance
• Quicker refunds (typically within 21 days)

Free Resources When You Need Them Most

IRS Free File Program

If your adjusted gross income is $73,000 or less, you can file federal taxes for free:

• IRS Free File connects you with participating providers
• TaxSlayer, TaxAct, and other services are available depending on your situation

Special Assistance for Those Who Need It

• VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) offers free help if you make $60,000 or less, have disabilities, or speak limited English
• TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) specializes in retirement questions for seniors
• Call 800-906-9887 to find a location—many have extended hours right now

For Military Families

• Military OneSource MilTax provides free tax preparation for service members and their families, regardless of income

Additional Free Support

• IRS Tax Help Line: 800-829-1040 (7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time)
• Local libraries and community centers often host tax help events
• All IRS forms and publications are free at IRS.gov

When You Owe Money But Can't Pay

It's a difficult feeling to realize you owe taxes but don't have the funds. The IRS understands this happens:

• Installment agreements let you pay over time
• Short-term payment plans are available if you can pay within 120 days
• Credit card payments are possible, though fees apply

A Moment of Kindness for Your Future Self

Once this tax season is behind you, consider setting up a system to make next year easier. Even small steps like keeping a dedicated folder for tax documents or making quarterly estimated payments can save you from this last-minute scramble next April.

Remember, you've got this. Thousands of people are in the same situation right now, and they'll get through it—just like you will. Take it one step at a time, use the free resources available, and soon this will just be a memory.

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Peach Insurance Services and Peachie Thompson are not accountants. We do not give tax or legal advice. This blog is for educational purposes only