The April 15 tax deadline is here. Whether you’ve been putting off your taxes or you’re in the final stretch, these last-minute tips can help you file correctly, maximize your refund, and avoid costly penalties.

1. File for an Extension if You Need More Time

Can’t finish by April 15? File IRS Form 4868 to get an automatic 6-month extension until October 15, 2026. Important: an extension to file is NOT an extension to pay. If you owe taxes, estimate and pay by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.

2. Maximize Your IRA Contribution

You can still contribute to a Traditional or Roth IRA for tax year 2025 until April 15, 2026. The contribution limit is $7,000 ($8,000 if you’re 50 or older). A Traditional IRA contribution may be tax-deductible depending on your income and whether you have a workplace retirement plan.

3. Don’t Miss These Common Deductions

• Student loan interest – deduct up to $2,500
• Educator expenses – teachers can deduct up to $300
• Home office deduction – for self-employed individuals
• Self-employed health insurance – fully deductible
• Business mileage – 67 cents per mile in 2025

4. Check for Tax Credits You May Be Missing

Tax credits reduce your tax bill dollar-for-dollar – more powerful than deductions. Don’t overlook:

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – worth up to $7,830 for qualifying families
• Child Tax Credit – up to $2,000 per qualifying child
• Child and Dependent Care Credit – for childcare expenses
• American Opportunity Credit – up to $2,500 for college expenses
• Saver’s Credit – for retirement savers with moderate income

5. Gather All Your Income Documents

Before filing, make sure you have everything:

• W-2 forms from all employers
• 1099 forms (freelance, dividends, interest, rental income)
• 1095-A if you had Marketplace health insurance
• Records of any other income received in 2025

6. Pay What You Owe to Avoid Penalties

The failure-to-pay penalty is 0.5% of unpaid tax per month (up to 25%). The failure-to-file penalty is 5% per month – much steeper. Even if you can’t pay in full, file on time and pay as much as you can. Set up a payment plan with the IRS at IRS.gov/payments.

7. Use IRS Free File If You Qualify

If your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) was $79,000 or less in 2025, you can file your federal taxes for free at IRS.gov/freefile. This opens access to guided tax preparation software at no cost.

Need Help? JRICKSS Financial Is Here

At JRICKSS Financial Services, our tax professionals are ready to help you file accurately, find every deduction you qualify for, and resolve any IRS issues. We serve individuals, families, and business owners — in English and Haitian Creole.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today:

Call: (844) 200-8027
Visit: jrickssfinancialservices.com