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IRS Tax Relief · Updated May 2026

What To Do When You Missed the Extended Tax Deadline

What To Do When You Missed the Extended Tax Deadline
×
Fresh Start Initiative
Fresh Start Initiative
America’s Tax Relief Network
Home Fresh Start Program IRS Notices Taxpayer Problems Articles About Check Your Eligibility
Call us directly (888) 665-4416
✓ Editorially independent Reviewed by licensed CPAs Read by 2M+ taxpayers in 2025 Updated monthly $1.2B+ in tax debt resolved 100,000+ Americans served Partner firms are BBB A+ rated only Licensed in all 50 states ✓ Editorially independent Reviewed by licensed CPAs Read by 2M+ taxpayers in 2025 Updated monthly $1.2B+ in tax debt resolved 100,000+ Americans served Partner firms are BBB A+ rated only Licensed in all 50 states
Tax Guide · Updated October 2021
What To Do When You Missed the Extended Tax Deadline

TL;DR: The last tax extension filing deadline for the tax year 2020 was October 15th, and although some of you may have rushed to meet the deadline, others may have missed it and are unsure what to do. This guide explains who qualifies, the rules that apply, and how to apply them to your situation.

The last tax extension filing deadline for the tax year 2020 was October 15th, and although some of you may have rushed to meet the deadline, others may have missed it and are unsure what to do. If you missed the deadline for submitting a tax extension, review these 5 key questions and answers to help you figure out what to do next.

Missed the Extended Tax Deadline? Do I Still File?

Yes, you should submit your taxes as quickly as possible. Even if your income was below the IRS filing threshold of $12,400 for single filers and $24,800 for married filers in 2020, you should still file your taxes if you had federal taxes deducted or if you are eligible for a refundable tax credit like the Earned Income Tax Credit, as you may be due a refund.

Will I Be Charged Penalty Fees By The IRS?

There is no penalty for filing late if you are expecting a tax refund. Penalties are determined by the amount owed. You will be charged late filing fees if you submit after the October 15 extended tax deadline and owe money.

I Can’t Pay Off My Back Taxes

If at some point in time, you have found yourself stuck in the predicament in which the IRS claims that you owe them back taxes, it can be bad news for you. Avoiding the IRS completely might lead to costly consequences. The first step in relieving a tax debt that is too high is seeking federal relief programs. Fortunately for many Americans, there’s a relief program that consolidates many major relief programs into a one-size-fits-all assistance program; The IRS Fresh Start Program.

Our clients are referred to our Fresh Start Program in order to avoid bankruptcy, acquire debt relief, and settle their debts in a quick manner. Let us give you a helping hand today!

See if you qualify for the Fresh Start Program today!

Resolve your tax debt before the IRS surprises you with late fees and penalties!

  1. Answer a few questions
  2. Qualify and be presented with a resolution – click here
  3. Enroll in Fresh Start

You can click here to be connected with a verified partner of IRS Fresh Start Initiative

Need Help With Back Taxes?

Contact a tax specialist today to explore how to reduce, resolve, or eliminate your back taxes with the IRS Fresh Start Program.

Call us directly at (888) 665-4416 or click the link below.

Check Your Eligibility →
Fresh Start Initiative is an independent editorial resource covering IRS tax debt relief. We do not provide tax advice or representation and are not affiliated with the IRS or any government agency. When you request a consultation, we connect you with a licensed, A+ BBB-rated tax relief firm from our vetted network — matched to your situation. Individual results vary.
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