WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service is urging taxpayers with extensions on their 2025 federal income tax returns to file before the Oct. 15 deadline, giving those who owe money more time to address their balances while potentially accelerating refunds for others.
Taxpayers granted an extension received additional time to file their returns, but the extension did not postpone the deadline for paying taxes owed. The IRS advised taxpayers with outstanding balances to pay as much as possible promptly to reduce accumulating penalties and interest.
The agency is encouraging taxpayers to file during the summer rather than waiting for the heavier filing activity expected as the October deadline approaches. Earlier filing can also provide additional time to resolve problems with a return or arrange payments.
IRS Free File will remain available through Oct. 15 for taxpayers with adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less in 2025. The program provides guided federal tax preparation and electronic filing through participating tax-software providers at no charge.
The software provides step-by-step filing instructions and automated error checks. Some participating providers also offer free preparation and filing of state returns to taxpayers who meet their eligibility requirements.
Taxpayers whose income exceeds the $89,000 threshold can use Free File Fillable Forms, an electronic option intended for people comfortable preparing their own federal returns.
For taxpayers expecting refunds, the IRS recommends filing electronically and selecting direct deposit to receive the money more quickly.
Taxpayers can access IRS Free File and determine their available filing options through IRS.gov.
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