Missed the Tax Deadline? Here’s What You Should Do Next

CARRIE LOWE
Apr 24
2 min read

Life gets busy—we get it. Between juggling work, family, and personal responsibilities, it’s easy to lose track of dates. But if April 15th (or the applicable tax deadline) has come and gone and you haven’t filed your taxes, don’t panic. You still have options to get back on track and avoid further consequences.

🚨 Step 1: Don’t Wait Any Longer—File ASAP

Even if the deadline has passed, it’s important to file your return as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more penalties and interest can pile up, especially if you owe taxes.

If you’re due a refund: Good news—there’s usually no penalty for filing late. However, you only have three years from the original deadline to claim your refund.
If you owe taxes: The IRS charges both failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties. The sooner you file, the sooner you can minimize those extra costs.

🧾 Step 2: Consider Filing for an Extension (If You Qualify)

While this should be done before the deadline, in some cases you may still be able to file for an extension under special circumstances. If you were out of the country or dealing with a natural disaster or hardship, the IRS might grant you additional time. Check with a tax professional to see if you qualify.

💳 Step 3: Pay What You Can—Even If It’s Not the Full Amount

Can’t pay your full tax bill? You’re not alone. The worst thing you can do is ignore it.

Make a partial payment now to reduce penalties and interest.
Set up a payment plan with the IRS—options include short-term and long-term installment agreements.
Consider an Offer in Compromise if you’re experiencing serious financial hardship.

🧑‍💼 Step 4: Talk to a Tax Professional

Late tax filing can quickly get complicated. A licensed tax preparer or enrolled agent can help you:

File correctly and claim any deductions or credits you might’ve missed
Avoid unnecessary penalties
Communicate with the IRS on your behalf

🛡️ Step 5: Stay Organized for Next Year

Use this experience as motivation to get ahead for the next tax season:

Set reminders for key deadlines
Keep track of income and expenses throughout the year
Consider using tax software or hiring a pro early on

✅ Final Thoughts

Missing the tax deadline isn’t the end of the world, but it’s important to take action quickly. Filing late is always better than not filing at all. Whether you’re expecting a refund or owe a balance, the key is to be proactive and get the help you need.

Need help catching up on past-due taxes? Contact us today—we can help you file, settle your tax debt, and get back in good standing with the IRS.