April 15 Tax Deadlines You Might Be Missing

April 15 is a date permanently etched into the minds of taxpayers. It is the day federal income tax returns are due, causing a rush of paperwork and stress for many. However, filing your Form 1040 is only one part of the puzzle.

Many people are surprised to learn that this mid-April deadline applies to several other crucial financial tasks. Missing these lesser-known cutoffs can mean losing out on valuable tax-saving opportunities. In worse cases, it can trigger unwanted interest payments and hefty penalties from the IRS.

At SD Mayer & Associates, we want to help you make smart financial decisions without the unnecessary stress. We have put together this simple guide to highlight five other important tax actions you need to take by April 15. Read on to make sure you are fully prepared this tax season.

Maximizing Your Retirement Savings

Making 2025 IRA Contributions

Even though the calendar has flipped to 2026, you still have until April 15 to make a 2025 contribution to a traditional or Roth IRA. Eligible taxpayers can put away up to $7,000, or $8,000 if you are 50 or older. This limit applies to traditional and Roth accounts combined. Traditional IRA contributions might be tax-deductible, though phaseouts apply if you have a workplace plan like a 401(k). Roth contributions are not deductible, but your qualified withdrawals will be tax-free. Keep in mind that this deadline remains April 15 even if you file for a tax return extension.

Benefits for Business Owners

Funding a SEP Plan

If you run a business or work for yourself, you can lower your 2025 tax bill by contributing to a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) plan. You can even set up a new plan and fund it for 2025 by April 15. The contribution limit is 25% of eligible compensation, up to $70,000. If you have eligible employees, you must contribute for them at the same percentage you do for yourself. If you file an extension, you get until October 15 to handle your SEP contributions.

Managing Extensions and Estimated Taxes

Filing for a Six-Month Extension

Cannot finish your return in time? You must file Form 4868 by April 15 to secure a six-month extension and avoid failure-to-file penalties. However, this only extends your paperwork deadline, not your payment deadline. You still need to estimate and pay any taxes owed by April 15 to minimize late fees.

Paying 2026 Estimated Taxes

If your income is not subject to withholding, such as earnings from self-employment, dividends, or capital gains, your first estimated tax payment for 2026 is due April 15. Failing to pay enough tax throughout the year can lead to penalties. Ensure your payments cover at least 90% of your 2026 liability or 100% to 110% of your 2025 tax bill, depending on your income level.

Handling Estates and Trusts

Filing Income Tax Returns for a Trust or Estate

Trustees and executors managing entities on a calendar tax year must file Form 1041 by April 15. This is required if the trust or estate generated $600 or more in gross income. You can request a five-and-a-half-month extension to September 30, but any estimated taxes due must still be paid by the mid-April cutoff.

Stay Ahead of Your Tax Deadlines

Filing your basic return is just the beginning. Depending on your financial situation, you might also need to handle federal gift tax returns or foreign bank account reports by April 15. At SD Mayer & Associates, we know that taxes can be complex, but finding the right strategy does not have to be. We are here to partner with you, look beyond the spreadsheet, and ensure you take full advantage of every opportunity. Reach out to our team today to get your finances fully optimized before the deadline hits.