Tax Deadline Date 2017 for Federal IRS Returns: Important Dates to Remember; How to File for Extension

By Georgia Gana, Christian Post Contributor Friday, March 24, 2017

For most Americans, the arrival of spring also means that a new tax season has begun. This year, U.S. citizens and residents get a bit more leeway as the deadline for sending federal tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will not be on April 15.

Because April 15 falls on a weekend and April 17 is a holiday in Washington, D.C., the law states that Tax Day will have to take place on the next business day, which is on Tuesday, April 18.

With tax season being a quite stressful experience for many, people will be able to benefit from the extra weekend to make sure that all their paperwork is in order.

To make sure that the entire process runs smoothly, here are some important dates and reminders to consider:

Estimated Payment Dates

For April 18, individuals will have to report earnings from January through March. For the second-quarter payment on June 15, earnings from April through May should be filed. The third-quarter payment, which includes earnings from June through August, will be due on Sept. 15. Lastly, fourth-quarter earnings, spanning the months September to December, are due on Jan. 15, 2018.

Extensions

U.S. residents and citizens are advised not to procrastinate and to file their tax returns by the April deadline. However, for those who really need that extra time, they will need to file Form 4868 to get a six-month extension. They will then have to submit their returns to the IRS by Oct. 16.

Meanwhile, extensions and tax relief will be granted to those who have experienced disaster situations such as being victims of severe storms, tornadoes, flooding and landslides. The list detailing these exemptions can be seen here.

On the other hand, U.S. citizens and residents who will be abroad during tax season will be given an automatic two-month extension. However, they will be required to pay interest.

The Tax Guide provided by the IRS will be a great reference material for those who still have queries or need additional guidance. A copy of all the forms can also be found here.