There’s one week until Tax Day. Here’s what to know about deadlines, resources
Tax Day is nearly upon us, and there is plenty for taxpayers to know.
How do you file for free in California? How can you get an extension? When will you get your refund?
Federal legislation passed in 2025 makes temporary and permanent changes to tax code. While some of those changes won’t take effect until next year’s tax season, some alter returns for this year.
Here’s what to know:
When is Tax Day? How do I file for an extension?
The deadline to file your 2025 tax return and submit any payment owed is Wednesday, April 15.
If you need more time, you can request a six-month extension — but any taxes owed must still be paid by the April deadline to avoid penalties and interest, according to the Internal Revenue Service.
How can I file my taxes for free?
The IRS and California Franchise Tax Board offer no-cost tax services, or you can use an e-filing option through companies including Cash App and FreeTaxUSA.
You’ll have to meet certain requirements to file your federal taxes for free. Some programs allow paid add-on services, such as support from a tax professional.
How do I avoid tax penalties?
According to the California Franchise Tax Board, you can face penalties and fees when you:
- Don’t pay your taxes on time
- Don’t pay enough estimated tax
- Don’t have enough taxes withheld from your paycheck
- Don’t pay electronically when required
- Make a “dishonored payment” such as a bounced check or insufficient funds
The IRS said taxpayers can also face penalties if they fail to prepare and file accurate returns or provide accurate and timely information returns.
How did the One Big, Beautiful Bill change this year’s taxes?
The One Big, Beautiful Bill makes permanent larger standard deductions, elimination of personal and dependent exemptions, lower tax brackets and elimination of, or limits on, certain itemized deductions.
The 2025 standard deduction rises to $15,750 from $14,600 for single filers, $23,625 from $21,900 for head of household filers, and $31,500 from $29,200 for married filing jointly filers. The deduction will increase with inflation each year.
The law also makes changes to how tips and overtime are taxed, includes higher credits and deductions for children and seniors, and increases higher state and local tax itemized deductions.
What are SALT deductions and how are they changing?
The SALT — or state and local tax — deduction cap was expanded under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act through 2029.
The cap has jumped from $10,000 to $40,000 for married couples filing jointly, and from $5,000 to $20,000 for married couples filing separately, according to the IRS.
That means, homeowners could see refunds about $1,000 more than last year.
How can I avoid delays on my refund?
Depending on how you file, your state and federal refunds could be in hand in as little as three weeks and as much as three months.
To avoid delays, make sure your return is complete and accurate.
Both California and the IRS have tools to track your refund status.
You’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your ZIP code
- Your exact refund amount
- The numbers from your street address.
