Tax Day is April 15 and if you’ve waited until the last minute, here are some important tips to keep in mind.

You must file your taxes or request an extension by Monday. For those who owe, the IRS offers short-term and long-term payment plans that don’t have to wait until Monday to be set up.

How can I file my taxes for free?

There are several services that provide free services to help with your tax filing needs.

  • Turbo Tax Free Edition
  • Free Tax USA
  • H&R Block
  • IRS Free File (for those with an adjusted income of $79,000 or less)
  • IRS’s Direct File (only for federal tax returns and those with simple taxes)

What happens if I file my taxes late?

Filing your taxes late can result in a penalty, including interest on what you owe, if you owe. The amount can vary depending on how late you file and the amount you owe. You can request an extension via the IRS’s website or by mail.

Extension only applies to the filing deadline, not the payment deadline, except for those eligible who have experienced recent natural disasters who have until Oct. 15, according to the IRS.

Avoid tax scams

As busy as you are during tax season, the IRS warns that criminals are busier. Scammers will impersonate the IRS over the phone, by email or in person in order to steal money from you. 

The IRS says it will never contact you by email to request personal or financial information. If you owe taxes, the agency will likely mail you a paper bill. In special situations, the IRS will call or come to a home or business regarding money owed. 

If you suspect suspicious activity by email or online, report it to phishing@irs.gov. 

The IRS will not leave you a pre-recorded, urgent or threatening voicemail. It will not threaten to bring police to arrest you for unpaid taxes. It will not call you to demand payment via debit card, gift card or wire transfer. 

Criminals can fake or spoof caller ID numbers, even an IRS office phone number or other government agencies. 

If you receive a call but don't owe taxes or have any reason to believe you do, you should: