Floridians affected by the 2024 hurricane season have received an automatic tax deadline extension. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) postponed the April 15 deadline to May 1, 2025, offering some relief to residents dealing with the aftermath of hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton.

While the rest of the nation must submit their taxes by Tuesday, April 15, 2025, Florida taxpayers in hurricane-impacted counties have additional time. This extension applies to:

• 2024 tax returns originally due in March or April 2025.
• Calendar-year 2023 federal returns with valid extensions, although any payments for these returns were already due last spring.
• 2024 and 2025 quarterly estimated tax payments due on January 15 and April 15, respectively.
• Payroll and excise tax returns normally due on October 31, 2024, January 31, 2025, and April 30, 2025.

Initially, the IRS granted extensions only to counties affected by hurricanes Debby and Helene. However, the arrival of Hurricane Milton prompted a broader declaration, covering all of Florida. This change allows impacted residents and businesses statewide to file various federal tax returns and payments by May 1, 2025.

For those receiving penalty notices for late filing or payments with due dates within the postponement period, the IRS advises contacting the number on the notice to request penalty abatement.

Filing Taxes: Your Options

There are several ways to file your taxes, many of which are free:

Free Tax Filing Options

• Free File: Available if your adjusted gross income is $84,000 or less. If higher, use fillable forms.
• Direct File: File online directly with the IRS.
• Free military/veteran tax services or IRS-certified volunteers: For those earning $67,000 or less, living with disabilities, over 60 years old, or needing language assistance.

Other Filing Methods

• Hire an IRS-approved tax professional.
• Submit paper forms like Form 1040 (individual taxes) or Form 1040-SR (seniors).
• Utilize tax preparation software.

Tax Refund Timing

If you’re owed a tax refund, it generally takes up to 21 days for e-filed returns and longer for mail-in or amended filings. Use the IRS tool, “Where’s My Refund?” for real-time updates after 48 hours. More information is available at: www.IRS.gov.

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