On March 17, 2021, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued Notice 2021-59, which extends the deadlines for federal individual income tax returns and payments of any tax due until May 17, 2021. This postponement also applies to individuals who pay self-employment tax.

Taxpayers are not required to file any additional forms or otherwise contact the IRS to qualify for this extension. In addition, there will be no interest or penalties charged on deferred tax payments, regardless of the amount.

Despite this extension, the federal government is still issuing refunds to taxpayers, and encourages those who are due a refund to file their returns as soon as possible.

Estimated tax payments that are due on April 15, 2021, are still due on that date.

Additionally, victims of the February winter storms in Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana have until June 15, 2021, to file various individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.