Deadlines are the part of taxes that surprise people the most. Knowing the shape of the calendar removes most of that stress.
Individual filing dates
Individual returns are generally due in mid-April, with an extension option that moves the filing date to mid-October. An extension moves the filing date, not the payment obligation.
Business filing dates
Partnerships and S corporations generally file earlier than individuals, often in mid-March, with their own extension dates. Corporations follow their own schedule based on the tax year.
Estimated payments
Self-employed taxpayers and others without withholding generally make quarterly estimated payments across the year. Missing them is a common source of surprise balances.
Important Tax Dates
Dates are maintained centrally so they stay current. Confirm your specific deadlines for your situation.
- January 312026Employees, contractors
W-2 and many 1099 forms issued
Employers and payers generally furnish these forms to recipients.
- March 162026Businesses
Partnership and S-corporation returns
Calendar-year partnerships and S corporations generally file or request an extension.
- April 152026Individuals
Individual return filing date
Individual returns are generally due, along with any extension request and first estimated payment.
- June 152026Self-employed
Second estimated tax payment
Common date for the second quarterly estimated payment.
- September 152026Self-employed
Third estimated tax payment
Common date for the third quarterly estimated payment.
- October 152026Individuals
Extended individual return date
Individual returns filed on extension are generally due.
Dates can shift for weekends, holidays and special relief. Always confirm the current year's dates.
Key takeaways
- An extension extends filing, not payment.
- Business entity type changes the deadline.
- Quarterly estimates matter for self-employed taxpayers.
- Dates can shift for weekends, holidays and relief provisions.
Frequently asked questions
File as soon as possible. Penalties and interest generally grow with time, so acting quickly usually helps.
Often, but not always. State dates should be confirmed separately.
This page provides general information only. Individual tax situations vary and may require additional documents or steps.