Will these new IRS measures affect you directly? The answer could be yes if you reside in an area deemed a disaster zone, as the IRS recently confirmed that taxpayers meeting specific conditions can receive an automatic extension for tax returns and payments.
Are you wondering why this matters for everyone this year? The short answer is that these changes could alleviate stress for both individuals and businesses facing recovery challenges. Under this update, residents and companies in federally declared disaster areas for 2024 will have until May 1, 2025, to file returns and settle taxes without penalties.
What changes are included in the new IRS automatic benefit for disaster areas?
Ayou curious whether you need to request this extension yourself? The great news is that you do not. According to the IRS, any taxpayer with a registered address in a location designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will receive this relief automatically. There is no separate form or request required to benefit from this extension.
How do extended deadlines for filing and tax payment impact you this 2025 season? Are you worried you may miss your deadline? The answer is no if you are in a qualified disaster region because the new due date is May 1, 2025.
However, certain counties and states will receive extra months beyond that. For example, residents of Los Angeles County in California affected by January wildfires have until October 15, 2025. Meanwhile, taxpayers in Kentucky and specific West Virginia counties will have until November 3, 2025. Here is a brief table showing key deadlines:
| Affected Region | New Deadline |
|---|---|
| FEMA-designated disaster area for 2024 | May 1, 2025 |
| Los Angeles County (California) after January wildfires | October 15, 2025 |
| Kentucky & listed West Virginia counties | November 3, 2025 |
These extensions also grant an additional 15 days beyond the listed deadlines for filing and paying due taxes, helping individuals and businesses regain financial stability.
Which specific states and counties are covered under these extended IRS deadlines for 2025?
Are you unsure whether your hometown is on the list? You can check FEMA’s official declarations to see if your county qualifies for relief. Kentucky is included entirely, while Boone, Greenbrier, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, Wayne, and Wyoming counties in West Virginia are also covered. The IRS advises anyone living outside these zones but whose records are located in a disaster area to call 866-562-5227 if they need an extension.
Are you ready to make the most of this opportunity? First, confirm whether your location falls under the disaster-area classification. Second, keep an eye out for any notice from the IRS. If you happen to get a late filing or late payment notice despite qualifying, you can call the number on the letter to resolve it. Finally, mark your calendar with the updated deadline to avoid last-minute rushes.