Today, 2019 tax returns are due. Taxpayers should remember to file or request an extension of time to file and pay any taxes they owe by the July 15 deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Here are some tips for taxpayers who owe tax, but who can’t immediately pay their tax bill.

Taxpayers should:

• File their tax return or request an extension of time to file by the July 15 deadline.

  • People who owe tax and do not file their return on time or request an extension may face a failure-to-file penalty for not filing on time.

  • Taxpayers should remember that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay.

    • An extension gives taxpayers until Oct. 15, 2020 to file their 2019 tax return, but taxes owed are still due July 15, 2020.
       

• Pay as much as possible by the July 15 due date.

  • Whether filing a return or requesting an extension, taxpayers must pay their tax bill in full by the July filing deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

  • People who do not pay their taxes on time will face a failure-to-pay penalty.

  •  IRS.gov has information for taxpayers who can’t afford to pay taxes they owe.

• Set up a payment plan as soon as possible.

  • Taxpayers who owe but cannot pay in full by the deadline don’t have to wait for a tax bill to request a payment plan. 

  • They can apply for a payment plan on IRS.gov.

  • Taxpayers can also submit a payment plan request in writing using Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request.

Some disaster victims, military service members and eligible support personnel in combat zones have more time beyond the July 15 deadline to file and pay their taxes.

Taxpayers should also check their state filing and payment deadlines, which may be different from the federal July 15 deadline. A list of state tax division websites is available through the Federation of Tax Administrators.

The IRS is processing tax returns, issuing refunds and accepting payments. Taxpayers who mail or who have already mailed a tax return will experience a longer wait. The IRS will process these returns in the order received and there is no need to file a second tax return or call the IRS.

More information:
Tax Topic Number 653: IRS Notices and Bills, Penalties, and Interest Charges
What Is the Due Date of My Federal Tax Return or Am I Eligible to Request an Extension?