If you’re feeling behind on your taxes this year, and you happen to live in one of 12 specific states, here’s some good news: the IRS is giving you more time to file. Thanks to recent disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and severe flooding, the IRS has officially extended tax deadlines for certain regions across the country.
Here’s what’s going on, who qualifies, and how much extra time you’ve got to breathe.
Why the Extension?
The IRS doesn’t hand out deadline extensions for no reason. When severe weather or other disasters hit, they often declare affected areas eligible for tax relief to help residents and businesses recover. That means people in impacted zones aren’t expected to worry about paperwork and payments while dealing with property damage or displacement.
In 2024 and early 2025, multiple states were hit hard—especially in the South and West. So if you’re from one of these areas, you may have until May, October, or even November 2025 to get your taxes filed.
These Are the States Getting Extra Time
Let’s break it down. Here’s who qualifies so far, and what their new deadlines are:
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Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina: Everyone in these four states has until May 1, 2025, to file their 2023 federal returns and make payments. No action is needed—if your address is in the system, the IRS already knows.
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Florida: Residents in 41 counties, including big ones like Miami-Dade and Broward, also get the May 1 extension.
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Tennessee: Eight counties, including Davidson (home to Nashville), are covered under the same deadline.
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Virginia: Six counties and one city—like Fairfax County and Alexandria—qualify too.
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Alaska: If you live in the Juneau area and were affected by the August 2024 flooding, you also get until May 1, 2025.
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California: Wildfires in early 2025 earned residents of Los Angeles County the most generous extension: October 15, 2025.
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Kentucky and parts of West Virginia: Taxpayers here get until November 3, 2025 to file their returns.
How Do You Know If You’re Eligible?
It’s actually pretty simple. If your address on file with the IRS is in a covered county, the extension is automatic. You don’t have to fill out any forms or request anything special. You’ll get the extra time, no questions asked.
That said, it’s always good to double-check your exact county. You can search the IRS disaster relief page or check with a tax professional if you’re unsure.
What’s Actually Extended?
This isn’t just about your standard April 15 return. The IRS extension applies to:
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Individual tax returns
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Business returns
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Estimated tax payments
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Contributions to IRAs and HSAs
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Payroll and excise tax filings for businesses
So whether you’re an individual filer or a small business owner, there’s a pretty wide safety net here.
What About State Taxes?
Here’s the catch: this IRS extension only applies to federal taxes. Some states will match it, but not all do it automatically. Be sure to check with your state’s tax agency to see if you’re off the hook there too.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re eligible for the extension:
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Relax—but don’t forget. The deadline may be months away, but it’s smart to mark your calendar now so it doesn’t sneak up on you.
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Gather your paperwork. Use the extra time to make sure everything is accurate. Missing a deduction or reporting an error could cost you later.
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Pay attention to quarterly payments. If you’re self-employed or pay estimated taxes, try to make payments on time even with the extension—interest may still apply.
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Keep an eye on the IRS site. The IRS may add more counties or states to the list if new disasters happen.
Final Thoughts
Nobody loves tax season, but if you’ve been through a tough year, this extension could be a much-needed break. The IRS wants to make sure you’re not penalized for circumstances beyond your control.
If you’re in one of these 12 states and think you qualify, take advantage of the time—whether it’s to get organized, save up for your payment, or just breathe a little easier.
