Missed the Income Tax Deadline?  Get help at IRS.gov

DALLAS - Even though the traditional filing season ended April 17, IRS e-file programs are still available for most taxpayers through the extension deadline – October 15, 2012.  Also, check out IRS Free File—taxpayers whose income if $57,000 or less will qualify to file their return for free through Free File.  For people who make more than $57,000, and who are comfortable preparing their own tax return, the IRS offers Free File Fillable Forms. There is no software assistance with Free File Fillable Forms, but it does the basic math calculations for you.

“If you missed the April 17 due date, be sure to file as soon as possible,” said Clay Sanford with the Dallas IRS office.  “If you owe tax, paying what you can now means less penalties and interest.”

Apply for an installment agreement to pay the remaining balance. File Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request or apply online using the IRS Online Payment Agreement Application.

Taxpayers who missed the filing deadline may be charged a penalty for filing after the due date. Filing as soon as possible will keep this penalty to a minimum.  And, taxpayers who did not pay their entire tax bill by the due date may be charged a late payment penalty. The best way to keep this penalty to a minimum is to pay as much as possible, as soon as possible.

"Taxpayers should file to get their refunds," Sanford stressed. "Even if your income is below the normal filing requirement, you may be entitled to a refund of taxes that were withheld from your wages, quarterly estimated payments or other special credits."  If you are due a refund, you will not be charged any penalties or interest for filing after the due date—but, if your return is not filed within three years you could forfeit your right to the refund. More information can be found at www.irs.gov.