Has Ohio's Tax Deadline Been Extended?

OHIO — Buckeye State residents will once again get some breathing room for filing their federal income tax returns.

The Internal Revenue Service said Wednesday the due date for the 2020 tax year for individuals was being moved by about a month: from April 15 to May 17. The agency said it would provide formal guidance in the coming days.

"This continues to be a tough time for many people, and the IRS wants to continue to do everything possible to help taxpayers navigate the unusual circumstances related to the pandemic, while also working on important tax administration responsibilities," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said.

Ohio's income tax filings are still due April 15 as of Thursday, though state officials have said they're considering moving the deadline to follow the IRS's lead.

Here’s what else the IRS said taxpayers need to know about the extended deadline:

• Taxpayers can postpone federal income tax payments that would be due April 15 to May 17 without any penalties or interest regardless of the amount owed
• The postponement is for individual taxpayers, including those who pay self-employment tax
• Penalties or interest in unpaid balances will begin to accrue May 17
• Taxes paid by May 17 will automatically avoid interests and penalties
• Taxpayers will automatically qualify for this relief and don’t need to file any forms

"Even with the new deadline, we urge taxpayers to consider filing as soon as possible, especially those who are owed refunds. Filing electronically with direct deposit is the quickest way to get refunds, and it can help some taxpayers more quickly receive any remaining stimulus payments they may be entitled to," Rettig said.

Anyone who needs an extension beyond May 17 can file to request an extension until October 15 but any taxes due would still need to be paid by May 17.

The agency also clarified that the extension doesn’t extend to estimated tax payments; the money withheld in paychecks or the estimated tax payments people make if their income isn’t withheld automatically.