Taxpayers on extension for the 2010 tax year have until tomorrow, October 17, 2011, to file their returns. If you previously filed for an extension using the form 4868, that means you.
To be considered timely, if you’re filing a paper return, your return must be postmarked no later than October 17, 2011. If you need to find out where to mail your return, the IRS has a useful click through chart on its web site. To file out where you can mail your return, use the US Post Office’s handy web site for hours of operation and locations.
If you’d rather use a private delivery service, certain services have been designated by the IRS to meet the “timely mailing” rule. They are:
- DHL Express (DHL): DHL Same Day Service.
- Federal Express (FedEx): FedEx Priority Overnight, FedEx Standard Overnight, FedEx 2Day, FedEx International Priority, and FedEx International First.
- United Parcel Service (UPS): UPS Next Day Air, UPS Next Day Air Saver, UPS 2nd Day Air, UPS 2nd Day Air A.M., UPS Worldwide Express Plus, and UPS Worldwide Express.
Check with the individual delivery service to find out how to get written proof of the mailing date and keep it handy with copies of your return.
If you’re rooting around on the IRS site looking for the Telefile instructions, you can stop looking. Telefile is no longer available due to the cost of the program and the popularity of e-file.
With e-file, you can file pretty much until the end of the day. However, if you use a third party to route your return, there may be extra steps – and thus, delays – so double, triple check with your provider if you have questions.
In some circumstances, taxpayers can wait until after October 17, 2011, to file. This includes:
- Members of the military and others serving in Iraq, Afghanistan or other combat zone localities. Typically, taxpayers have until at least 180 days after they leave the combat zone to file their returns and pay any taxes due. For more information, check out the IRS’ FAQs on Combat Zone Service.
- Taxpayers affected by Hurricane Irene and other recent natural disasters. Currently, parts of eight states (Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Vermont) and Puerto Rico are covered by federal disaster declarations, and affected individuals and businesses in these areas have until October 31 to file. For more information, check out the IRS’ statement on natural disasters.
If you have questions about your tax return, call the IRS at 1.800.829.1040 or check with your tax professional.