Tax deadline for Georgians extended to May 1: What you need to know
Here are the resources you need to file your last-minute returns safely.
ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - As Tax Day looms just a week away for most Americans, Georgia residents have more time to file their tax returns this year due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
The new deadline is May 1, 2025, giving Georgia taxpayers an extra two weeks to submit their returns.
The May 1, 2025, filing deadline applies to:
- Individuals and businesses that have a 2024 return normally due during March or April 2025.
- Individuals who had a valid extension to file their 2023 return due to run out on Oct. 15, 2024. The IRS noted, however, that because tax payments related to these 2023 returns were due on April 15, 2024, those payments are not eligible for this relief.
- Calendar-year corporations whose 2023 extensions run out on Oct. 15, 2024.
Anyone who needs a tax filing extension beyond May 1, 2025, for tax year 2024 can get it, but they must request the extra time. This type of filing extension is not an extension of time to pay.
The IRS is urging anyone who needs an extension to request it electronically by April 15, 2025. Though disaster-area taxpayers also qualify to request a tax filing extension between April 15 and May 1, 2025, these requests cannot be filed electronically.
They can be filed only on paper using Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
Why the extension?
The extension follows a major disaster declaration issued by President Joe Biden after Hurricane Helene swept through the Southeast in October 2024. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared all 159 counties in Georgia disaster areas, triggering an automatic delay in federal and state filing deadlines. Similar extensions were granted in Florida, Alabama, North and South Carolina, and Tennessee.
When will returns be processed?
According to the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR), the state began processing 2024 individual income tax returns on Feb. 3, 2025. The agency emphasized its commitment to secure and efficient processing.
“The Department of Revenue is committed to processing income tax returns in a timely manner, maintaining the highest levels of security to protect confidential taxpayer information, and guarding state tax dollars against fraud,” said State Revenue Commissioner Frank O’Connell.
In 2024, the DOR processed more than 5.4 million individual income tax returns, with an average turnaround time of just over two days for electronically filed, error-free returns.
Important reminders for Georgia filers
- Most error-free, electronically filed returns are processed within five business days.
- Refunds are typically issued within 21 days from the date of filing.
- First-time Georgia filers—or anyone who hasn’t filed in the state in the past five years—will receive their refund via paper check.
With the new deadline, you may feel the urge to delay your filing, but make sure you choose the right help and take steps to avoid common mistakes.
Choosing the right tax preparer
- Ask about credentials: Look for professionals who are enrolled agents (EAs); Certified Public Accountants (CPAs); or tax attorneys.
- Be wary of promises of “big refunds.” Steer clear of pop-up preparers who inflate deductions or will not sign their names on the return. If the preparer’s only credential is a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number), they’re allowed to file returns, but their qualifications may be minimal, increasing the chance for errors.
- Use verified resources. Use the IRS Tax Professional Directory to find vetted tax professionals near you.
- File for free if you qualify: If you earn less than $84,000 annually, the IRS’s Free File Program offers filing through trusted partners at no cost.
Protect your identity
Be sure to request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS. This adds an extra layer of security to ensure no one else files a return in your name. You can learn more and apply for one here.
Already filed and waiting?
You can track your refund using the Where’s My Refund? tool.
If you owe taxes, avoid tax relief companies that often charge thousands. Instead, check out IRS repayment plans for a more affordable solution.
Helpful links and resources
From the IRS:
- Understanding Tax Return Preparer Credentials and Qualifications
- IRS Tax Professional Directory
- IRS Free File Program (for incomes under $84,000)
- Identity Protection PIN FAQs
- How to pick a tax preparer
From the Georgia Department of Revenue:
- Georgia DOR - File electronically and download tax forms.
- Check if you qualify for free filing through the Free File Alliance.
- Explore Georgia filing FAQs and security tips.
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