With the individual tax-filing deadline on Wednesday, April 15th, now is the time to complete all filing arrangements and payments. What follows is information typically provided in our filing instructions to you when the tax return is completed. However, upon review, it makes sense to provide this information to everyone, regardless of whether you have filed. These tips contain good information to know, so if you have not already done so, ask yourself these last-minute tax questions.

Last-minute tax tips

1. Did you sign your e-file authorization form? IRS Form 8879 requires your signature before you can e-file your taxes. If you are filing jointly, your spouse must also sign. If you haven’t already, please return the signed form ASAP to ensure that your taxes can be e-filed on time. But don’t sign it before reviewing the tax return. Remember, this signature means you agree with the accuracy of the tax return.
2. Do you need more time to file? If you are not ready to file your taxes before the initial April 15th deadline, you can file for a six-month extension. Be aware that it is only an extension of time to file, not an extension of time to pay taxes you owe. You still need to pay all taxes by April 15th!
3. Do you owe money? If yes, make your tax payment now! The IRS website has several payment options. If mailing a payment, include Form 1040-V and ensure the postmark is on or before April 15th. Sending the payment by certified mail will ensure you have proof of a timely payment. Late payments, even by one day, are subject to IRS penalties and interest.
4. Do you need to deposit funds in your IRA or HSA? Did you claim an IRA or HSA contribution on your tax return? For the deduction to be valid for 2025, all deposits to those accounts must be made by April 15th. Once completed, save proof of the contribution with your 2025 tax files.
5. Do you need to make an estimated tax payment? The first quarter estimated tax payment for 2026 is also due by April 15th. If you owe taxes for 2025, making 2026 estimated payments might make sense for you. A quick way to calculate a first-quarter payment is to divide the taxes you paid in 2025 by four, then adjust this number for any paycheck withholdings. Send your payment along with Form 1040-ES to the IRS by April 15th. Then schedule a tax-planning meeting to determine the best approach for the remainder of the year.

Next steps

If you do miss a deadline, file your return and pay the taxes as soon as you can to stop the accruing of interest and penalties. If you have any questions or want to get started, contact our RRBB advisors today.