ACT NOW WITH CONFIDENCE — YOU ARE FULLY CAPABLE AND POWERFULLY PREPARED
THE PRESS CENTER | BREAKING NEWS | TAX
REVISED APRIL 5 2026 AT 9:51 AM
IR‑2026‑44, April 3, 2026
WASHINGTON — As the April 15 tax deadline approaches, you stand fully equipped to take decisive action. You have everything you need to file your federal income tax return electronically, request direct deposit for any refund, and move forward with clarity and control. By filing now—and paying any amount owed—you boldly avoid interest, reduce penalties, and demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead.
Use IRS.gov — Your Always‑Ready Resource for Success
IRS.gov is available 24/7, empowering you with tools, guidance, and answers that keep you informed, confident, and in command of your tax responsibilities.
- Let Us Help You. Access powerful tips, tools, and answers to your most important tax questions—knowledge that strengthens your decisions.
- IRS Individual Online Account. View your tax information securely, manage payments with ease, track your refund, and communicate directly with the IRS. You are in control every step of the way.
No‑Cost Electronic Filing Options — Designed to Help You Win
Electronic filing minimizes errors, streamlines your process, and accelerates your refund—often within 21 days when you choose direct deposit. You deserve speed, accuracy, and simplicity, and these options deliver exactly that.
- IRS Free File & Fillable Forms. If your 2025 income is $89,000 or less, you qualify for IRS Free File. If you prefer to prepare your own return, Free File Fillable Forms are available to everyone—your independence is supported.
- MilTax. Military members and qualifying veterans can file confidently and at no cost through the Department of Defense’s MilTax program.
- IRS‑Certified Volunteers. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free, reliable tax preparation nationwide—your community stands ready to support you.
Payment Options That Put You in Control
You have multiple secure ways to pay directly from your checking or savings account through your IRS Individual Online Account. You can also choose IRS Direct Pay, debit or credit cards, digital wallets, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System, or electronic funds withdrawal.
If you cannot pay the full amount by the deadline, you still move forward with strength: pay what you can now and apply for an online payment plan. Most applicants receive immediate approval—no calls, no delays, just progress.
Need More Time to File? You Have Options
If you cannot file by April 15, you can confidently request an automatic extension. Remember: an extension to file is not an extension to pay, so estimate and pay what you owe to avoid penalties and interest. You have clear, simple ways to request an extension:
- Make an electronic payment using Direct Pay, debit card, credit card, or digital wallet—just indicate the payment is for an extension.
- File Form 4868 using IRS Free File, available to everyone.
- Mail Form 4868 if you prefer paper filing—just ensure it’s completed, postmarked by the deadline, and sent to the correct address.
If you serve in a combat zone, live abroad, or are affected by certain disasters, you may qualify for additional time. You have earned that consideration—check your eligibility before the deadline.
More Information to Guide Your Next Steps
- Publication 594 — The IRS Collection Process
- Publication 6103 — Get Help with Tax Debt
These resources give you clear, actionable guidance on payment options and long‑term plans for managing a tax balance. You are never without support, direction, or solutions.
SOURCE CREDIT: WWW.IRS.GOV/NEWSROOM
