Important Tax Tips Expats Need to Know To Never Miss a Tax Deadline

Don’t Panic If You Missed The Tax Deadline

If you missed the April 15th tax deadline to file your return, don’t panic. Here’s some sound advice for getting caught up with your taxes:

• File as soon as you can. If you owe taxes, you should file and pay as soon as you can. This will help minimize interest and penalty charges. It’s important to note that there is no penalty for filing a late return if you are due a refund. If you are unsure about whether you owe or have a refund, what are you waiting for? Find out today by getting your return prepared.
• Pay as much as you can. If you owe tax but can’t pay it all at once, try to pay as much as you can when you file your tax return. Pay the remaining balance as soon as possible to stop further penalties and interest.
• E-file is still available. Tax Samaritan can electronically file your return through Oct. 15. E-file is the easiest, safest and most accurate way to file your taxes. With e-file you receive confirmation that the IRS received your tax return. If you e-file and choose direct deposit of your refund, you’ll normally get it within 21 days.
• Make a payment agreement online. If you need more time to pay your taxes, Tax Samaritan can help you apply for a payment plan with the IRS. As part of your tax filing, we can prepare an installment payment request to help establish a manageable plan for paying the tax that is owed.
• A refund may be waiting. If you’re due a refund, you should file as soon as possible to get it. Even if you are not required to file, you may still get a refund. This could apply if you had taxes withheld from your wages or you qualify for certain tax credits. If you don’t file your return within three years, you could forfeit your right to the refund.

Get Started With A Tax Quote

Tax Samaritan is focused on ensuring that accurate and complete returns are prepared for all taxpayers while paying the lowest tax liability legally possible.

If you would like to request a free quote or discuss the preparation of your tax return, you can request a free, no obligation quote for our services here:

Tax Samaritan is a team of Enrolled Agents with over 25 years of experience focusing on US tax preparation and representation. We maintain this tax blog where all articles are written by Enrolled Agents. Our main objective is to educate US taxpayers on their tax responsibilities and the selection of a tax professional. Our articles are also designed to help taxpayers looking to self prepare, providing specific tips and pitfalls to avoid.

When looking for a tax professional, choose carefully. We recommend that you generally want to hire an Enrolled Agent, such as Tax Samaritan or other professional licensed to practice before the IRS, such as a CPA or attorney. If you are a US taxpayer overseas, we further recommend that you seek a professional who is experienced in expat tax preparation (most tax professionals have limited to no experience with expat taxes).

Randall Brody is an enrolled agent, licensed by the US Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before the IRS for audits, collections and appeals. To attain the enrolled agent designation, candidates must demonstrate expertise in taxation, fulfill continuing education credits and adhere to a stringent code of ethics.

Every effort has been taken to provide the most accurate and honest analysis of the tax information provided in this blog. Please use your discretion before making any decisions based on the information provided. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for seeking professional tax advice based on your individual needs.