(WJW) — May 17, the deadline for individuals to file and pay most federal income taxes, has arrived.
In a recent Facebook post, the IRS gave a quick reminder for anyone who needed extra time to file.
“This continues to be a tough time for many people, and the IRS wants to continue to do everything possible to help taxpayers navigate the unusual circumstances related to the pandemic, while also working on important tax administration responsibilities,” IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said.
Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file beyond the May 17 deadline can request a filing extension until Oct. 15 by filing Form 4868 through their tax professional, tax software or using the Free File link on IRS.gov.
If you want an extension on your Michigan state taxes, fill out an application — called Form 4 — and have it in the mail by the end of the day Monday.
An extension gives taxpayers until Oct. 15 to file their 2020 tax returns — but you still have to pay now if you owe something.
If you’re on track to get things done today but don’t want to have to go to the post office, you can both file and pay your state taxes electronically.
State officials remind you to fill in every part of the return, double-check everything (including your account and routing numbers for direct deposit), and sign and date the return. If you’re sending it by mail, make sure you haven’t forgotten to include any pages in the envelope and double check the mailing address to ensure it gets to the right place. You should also always keep a copy of your return.
At the federal level, Rettig also encourages taxpayers to file electronically with direct deposit for the quickest way to get refunds. Rettig said it can help some taxpayers more quickly receive any remaining stimulus payments entitled to them.
City of Grand Rapids returns are due June 1.
—WOODTV.com staff contributed to this report.
