Unclaimed stimulus payments
If you didn't claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return and were eligible, you may receive a payment by direct deposit or check and a letter in January 2025. No action is needed. If you didn't file a 2021 tax return, find how to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.
In this series:
How to file your taxes: step by step
Check if you need to file
Gather your documents
Get credits and deductions
File your return
Get your refund
Pay taxes on time
Be ready to file taxes next year
When to file your taxes
The tax deadline for 2024 tax returns is April 15, 2025.
You may have more time to file if:
- You were affected by a federally-declared disaster.
- You're living out of the country on the due date.
Find your deadlines if you file on a fiscal year.
Find help if you need more time to file or pay.
Ways to file for free
Free File - If your adjusted gross income is $84,000 or less. If higher, you can use Free File Fillable Forms.
Direct File - Prepare and file your taxes online – for free – directly with the IRS.
Free tax services for military and veterans
IRS-certified volunteers – If you earn $67,000 or less, have a disability, are 60 years or older or need language support.
Other ways to file
Tax professional - Choose an IRS-approved tax professional.
Paper forms - You can file with paper forms and mail them to the IRS.
- If you have wages, file Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
- If you're a senior, you can file 1040-SR.
- If you have a business or side income, file Form 1040 with a Schedule C.
Tax preparation software - Use tax preparation software of your choice to file your taxes electronically or on paper.
If you need more time to file or pay
If you need more time, you must request an extension by the April filing deadline. Filing later may add penalties.
If you file an extension, you must still pay taxes you owe by the deadline. Paying later adds interest and penalties.
If you can't pay, get help with tax debt.
Tax changes for this year
Record these numbers
When you file your return, record these numbers so you can check your refund, e-file next year or get tax information during the year:
- Your exact refund amount
- Your adjusted gross income
You can also find these numbers after we process your return in your online account.
File for prior years
If you haven't filed a past-due tax return, you can file a tax return for any prior year.
Get credits and deductions Get your refund
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