The IRS 2025 tax deadline has passed, and millions have yet to file. If you missed the April 15 deadline and owe taxes, penalties are piling up—5% per month for late filing and 0.5% per month for unpaid taxes. After 60 days, the minimum late penalty can reach $485.
To minimize penalties, the IRS urges taxpayers to file immediately, pay what they can, and consider setting up a payment plan. Those eligible may request penalty relief.
If you’re due a refund, there’s no penalty, but you must claim it within three years—2021 refunds expire May 17, 2025.
Taxpayers with extensions have until October 15, 2025 to file, but interest on unpaid taxes continues to accrue.
The IRS advises late filers to act quickly and seek professional help if needed.