Don’t Miss the Tax Extension Deadline: 8 Last-Minute Tax Filing Tips to Save Time and Money

October 14, 2025, Update: The tax extension deadline is October 15. If you’re rushing to get your taxes done ahead of the deadline and need some extra help, use the tips below or use TurboTax to get your return filed accurately and on time.

October 1, 2025 Update: A government shutdown was announced on October 1. According to the IRS, processing for most returns and refunds will continue as usual. If you e-file and choose direct deposit for your refund, the IRS will process your return and issue your payment as they usually do.

With the tax extension deadline swiftly approaching on October 15, you still have time to file your tax return. I know there has been a lot going on this year and you may need some help getting yourself ready to file, but don’t worry, TurboTax is here for you. Here are eight last-minute tax tips to help you easily and accurately file your taxes by the tax extension deadline.

Key takeaways

• Yes, you can still file, even during the government shutdown.
• Wednesday, October 15, 2025, is the final extension deadline for your 2024 tax return.
• E-file with direct deposit is the fastest way to get your taxes and refund processed. 
• Make sure to gather all your necessary info, double-check everything, and claim any and all deductions or credits you qualify for.
• If you owe and can’t pay the full bill right now, you should still file your return. You may be able to work out a payment plan with the IRS for the remaining balance.

1. Gather your documents in one place.

When you sit down to file your taxes, make sure you have all the necessary documents like W-2s, 1099s, receipts for expenses, mortgage interest, and your kids’ Social Security numbers in front of you.

2. Go online and e-file.

Even though it’s a last-minute crunch, you don’t need to stress. TurboTax makes it easy to e-file your 2024 taxes online from the comfort of your home. With TurboTax, you have the luxury of filing your taxes seamlessly across devices, anytime and anywhere you want.

You can conveniently jump-start your taxes by snapping a photo of your W-2 with your phone or tablet, and watch as your information is securely put into the correct tax forms eliminating data entry. You can start on your phone, take a break, and finish your taxes on your computer. By going online to prepare your taxes, you can save time and money, avoiding the necessity to go out anywhere.

3. E-file with direct deposit.

If you are expecting a tax refund, e-file with direct deposit is the fastest way to get your tax refund. The IRS expects to issue nine out of 10 tax refunds within 21 days or less of acceptance when you e-file with direct deposit, compared to what normally takes six to eight weeks for paper-filed tax returns.  In some situations, it can take longer.

4. Double-check important information.

According to the IRS, one of the top mistakes taxpayers make when rushing to meet the tax deadline is gathering incorrect Social Security numbers for their children and spouses. Make sure you have the correct Social Security numbers when you prepare your taxes. Correct Social Security numbers are required to get valuable tax deductions and credits.

5. Be aware of tax benefits for dependents.

Dependents can be worth valuable tax deductions and credits. Even though TurboTax helps you so that you don’t miss out on tax benefits you’re eligible for, you should gather your receipts related to your dependents like receipts for daycare and even summer camp since you may be able to claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit.

Don’t forget, you may also be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit worth up to $7,830 for tax year 2024 with three or more kids and the Child Tax Credit. There is also a credit for supporting non-child dependents like your parents or grandparents called the Other Dependent Credit, which is worth $500.

6. Don’t forget what you did last year.

Although more taxpayers will take the standard deduction (TurboTax estimates and the IRS confirmed about 90%) versus itemized deductions under tax reform, including a few additional receipts for itemized deductions may push you over the standard deduction, lowering your tax liability.

7. Remember to include charitable contributions made throughout the year.

If you itemize your deductions, you will be able to deduct that from your gross income.

8. File even if you owe.

If you e-file your taxes by the tax deadline, you will avoid a failure-to-file penalty of 5% per month of the unpaid tax liability. Even if you owe money, you can ask the IRS for an installment agreement when you file your taxes. The installment agreement will allow you to pay your tax debt over six years.  You should be aware that interest will be added until the amount is paid in full.

October 15 filing checklist

• Determine whether you’ll file on your own or need a tax expert’s assistance.
• Gather all the info you’ll need to file your return–W-2 forms, 1099s, receipts for donations, proof of childcare expenses, etc.
• Double-check everything before submitting.
• Go online with TurboTax and e-file with direct deposit.

File with confidence

Don’t worry about knowing these tax rules. Meet with a TurboTax Full Service expert who can prepare, sign and file your taxes, so you can be 100% confident your taxes are done right. Start TurboTax Expert Full Service today, in English or Spanish, and get your taxes done and off your mind.

*There have been so many natural disasters this year. If you were a victim of a federally declared natural disaster, the IRS offers relief in many cases, whether in the form of extensions to pay or file your taxes.