COVID Delayed Tax Filing Deadline is Today

(July 15, 2020 7:11 AM) With taxpayers required to either e-file or mail their federal and state income tax returns by midnight tonight, the Michigan Department of Treasury has some tips to help last-minute filers submit an accurate return.

Due to COVID-19, the original filing deadline and tax payment due date for 2019 was postponed from April 15 to July 15 by the State of Michigan and the Internal Revenue Service.

To ensure an accurate income tax return is filed with the state of Michigan:

• File electronically. Taxpayers can go to www.michigan.gov/mifastfile to learn more about e-filing options.
• Mail a paper return to the right address. To avoid processing delays, paper filers should carefully follow tax form instructions when sending a paper return to a specific address.
• Fill in all requested information clearly. When entering information on the tax return, take the time to ensure information is accurate and easy to read.
• Review all figures. While software catches and prevents many errors on e-filed returns, math errors remain common on paper returns.
• Get the right routing and account numbers. Requesting direct deposit of a state tax refund is convenient and enables the taxpayer to access their money faster. Make sure the financial institution’s routing and account numbers entered on the return are accurate.
• Sign and date the return. If paper filing a joint return, both spouses must sign and date the return. Most e-file software platforms allow electronic signatures.
• Submit all the required forms. Paper filers should carefully follow the instructions and attach all forms as indicated. If possible, use a paperclip, binder clip or rubber band to hold all documents together.
• Keep a copy of the return. Taxpayers should make a copy of their signed return and all supporting schedules for their personal records. Records should be kept for six years.
• Request a filing extension. Taxpayers who owe payment and need more time to file their state individual income tax return can file for a six-month extension by completing an Application for Extension of Time to File Michigan Tax Returns (Form 4) and have it postmarked by July 15.  This allows an extension of time to file, but not to pay.  Taxpayers must still pay tax liabilities by July 15.
• Owe tax? If so, payments can be made using Michigan’s e-Payments service. When mailing checks, carefully follow tax form instructions. Treasury will work with taxpayers who cannot pay the full amount of tax they owe.

To learn more about Michigan’s Individual Income Tax, go to www.michigan.gov/incometax or follow the state Treasury department on Twitter at @MITreasury.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury and IRS announced the tax filing and payment deadline of July 15 will not be postponed. Individual taxpayers unable to meet the July 15 due date can request an automatic extension of time to file until Oct. 15.

The IRS reminds taxpayers filing Form 1040 series returns that they must file Form 4868 by July 15 to obtain the automatic extension to Oct. 15. The extension provides additional time to file the tax return – it is not an extension to pay any taxes due.

The IRS urges people who owe taxes, even if they have a filing extension, to carefully review their situation and pay what they can by July 15 to avoid penalties and interest. For people facing hardships, including those affected by COVID-19, who cannot pay in full, the IRS has several options available to help. To avoid interest and penalties, the IRS encourages them to pay what they can and consider a variety of payment options available for the remaining balance.

“The IRS understands that those affected by the coronavirus may not be able to pay their balances in full by July 15, but we have many payment options to help taxpayers,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “These easy-to-use payment options are available on IRS.gov, and most can be done automatically without reaching out to an IRS representative.”

Taxpayers who need more time to prepare and file their federal tax return can apply for an extension of time to file until Oct. 15. To get an extension, taxpayers must estimate their tax liability on the extension form and pay any amount due.

Individual taxpayers have several easy ways to file Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, by the July 15 deadline. Tax software providers have an electronic version available. In addition, all taxpayers, regardless of income, can use IRS Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension.