It might feel like it was a whole lifetime ago, but Hurricane Helene was actually just last year. Because of the damage done by the storm in many states in the Southeast, the IRS has pushed the tax deadline from April 15th to May 1st, 2025.
Keep scrolling to learn about what you need to know.
Does the extended tax deadline apply to me?
If you still haven’t filed your taxes, don’t worry. If you’re a Georgia resident, you’re covered until May 1st, 2025. The IRS made an announcement on October 11th, 2024, which applies to:
- Individuals and businesses that have a 2024 return normally due during March or April 2025.
- Individuals who had a valid extension to file their 2023 return due to run out on Oct. 15, 2024. The IRS noted, however, that because tax payments related to these 2023 returns were due on April 15, 2024, those payments are not eligible for this relief.
- Calendar-year corporations whose 2023 extensions run out on Oct. 15, 2024.
In their statement, they declare:
The Internal Revenue Service announced today tax relief for individuals and businesses in the entire state of Georgia that were affected by Hurricane Helene that began on Sept. 24, 2024. These taxpayers now have until May 1, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.
If you’d like to know more about the tax relief for victims of Hurricane Helene, you can check out the IRS’s website, here!
How do I file my federal income taxes?
You’ve probably heard of lots of ways to file your taxes.
- You can always take your taxes to a tax pro to file for you: some tax filing programs include TurboTax, H&R Block and more!
- You could also use a “tax preparer,” which includes certified public accountants, enrolled agents and others. Of course, as with any sensitive information, you want to make sure you’re working with a certified, trusted individual! (Check out Thumbtack to find local pros for everything from home repairs to taxes!)
- You may also be eligible to file directly on the IRS website, possibly for free (more below!)
Can I file my taxes for free?
File your federal taxes for free and your state taxes for only $14.99 on FreeTaxUSA.com. This quick way to E-file is one of the cheaper options, with free federal taxes and low-rate state taxes.
FreeTaxUSA breaks down their cost services like this:
- Federal Tax Return $0.00
- E-File $0.00
- Customer Support $0.00
- Printable Tax Return $0.00
- Tax Extension $0.00
- State Tax Return $14.99
- Deluxe Edition $7.99**
- Pro Support $49.99**
**Deluxe and Pro support is optional.
You also may be eligible to file for free directly from the IRS. Check their website here to see if you qualify!