IRS Extends 2025 Tax Deadline to May 1 for Disaster-Affected States: What You Need to Know

In a major relief for taxpayers in disaster-declared areas, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has extended the 2025 federal tax filing and payment deadline to May 1, 2025. This extension applies to individuals and businesses in twelve states and territories impacted by severe weather and federally declared natural disasters.

At Bizora, we understand the complexities of state and federal tax compliance—especially during crisis situations. Here’s everything you need to know about the new IRS tax deadline extension and how to ensure your business or personal return stays on track.

Who Qualifies for the May 1, 2025 Tax Extension?

The automatic extension applies to taxpayers located in specific counties or entire states that have been designated as federal disaster areas by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

As of now, the IRS extension includes:

• Entire states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina

• Selected regions in: Alaska, New Mexico, Tennessee, Virginia

• Additional jurisdictions may be added based on future FEMA declarations

To check if your location qualifies, visit the IRS’s official disaster relief page at irs.gov.

What Tax Obligations Are Affected?

For eligible taxpayers in the covered regions, the May 1, 2025 deadline applies to:

• Filing your 2024 federal income tax return (Form 1040)

• Paying taxes owed for the 2024 tax year

• Making 2025 Q1 estimated tax payments

• Filing business tax returns, including partnership (Form 1065) and corporate (Form 1120) filings due in March or April

• Contributions to IRAs and HSAs designated for the 2024 tax year

No late-filing or late-payment penalties will be assessed if these actions are completed by the extended deadline.

What Do You Need to Do?

The good news: you do not need to file Form 4868 to request this extension if your address is in an eligible disaster area. The IRS will automatically apply relief based on your ZIP code.

However, here are a few steps to take now:

1. Verify Your Eligibility: Confirm that your county or ZIP code is listed in the IRS disaster relief database.

2. Communicate With Your CPA: If you’re working with a tax professional, ensure they’re aware of your location and the extended deadline.

3. Keep Documentation: If you were personally or professionally affected by a disaster (property damage, evacuation, etc.), retain records in case additional relief programs become available.

4. Update Estimated Tax Calendars: If you’re self-employed or running a small business, this extension affects your Q1 payment deadlines.

How Bizora Can Help

Disasters disrupt operations, but compliance deadlines keep moving. At Bizora, we work with small business owners and individuals to navigate tax extensions, disaster relief programs, and IRS compliance. Whether you need help verifying eligibility, submitting your return, or rescheduling your payment plan, we’re here to guide you.

Take Advantage of the Extension—But Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

While the IRS has offered a grace period, it’s always wise to file sooner rather than later. Use this extra time to organize your documents, optimize deductions, and plan your next quarter’s cash flow.

Need support with tax filing under disaster-related extensions? Visit bizora.ai or schedule a consultation today.