Fall Filing

2008-09-15 by

Today TaxMama hears from Pam in Texas who has lots of questions. “How many people file this late in the year? Can I still e-file my 2007 return. Will there be any red flag problems?”

Dear Pam,

Ohh…you want me to work, looking up statistics for you. Sigh. OK.

If I tell you that only 3 people file this late in the year, will that impact your decision to file your tax return?

What’s if I tell it’s 3 million people? OK, in fact last year, over 6.9 million people filed their tax returns after August 10th.

Of course you may still e-file your tax return. You have until October 15th of each year to e-file that year’s return. In fact, for years when October 15th lands on a weekend, you get until the next business day. Better yet, you will still get your rebate check – if you qualify.

And to answer your last question – will filing this late red-flag your return? Since your return will be among millions of procrastinators…filing before the deadline won’t attract any attention.

However, I haven’t a clue about what you put into your tax return. The contents of your return might red-flag it. But…that’s another question for another time.

And remember, you can find answers to all kinds of questions about red flags and filing deadlines and other tax issues, free. Where? Where else? At TaxMama.com

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  1. Sylvia Says:
    September 15th, 2008 at 10:24 am

    I found your "red flag" comment interesting. Sad we have to worry about some "little" something causing a "red flag." Example: We filed June 15 electronically with tax due to be withdrawn from our checking account. IRS sent us a notice that payment was due! Seems IRS "had made an error" and given someone else credit for our payment. Finally got it corrected but, get this, they charged us additional penalty/interest for being late per date they "finally" gave us credit. We let it go. Not worth the hassle and, of course, don't like "red flags" of any kind altho we're retired and have no substanial income. Why are we so frightened of IRS?!

  2. Eva Rosenberg - Your TaxMama® Says:
    September 15th, 2008 at 10:41 am

    Hi Sylvia,

    If the mistake was due to an input error (on the part of your tax preparer or you) then, sure, you should pay the penalties and interest.

    However, if the error was an IRS glitch – you should respectfully request a refund of your payment – use Form 843. IRS should eat the interest and penalties when they have systemic errors. It won't be a red flag.

    And there's no reason not to stand up for yourself – politely.

    Best wishes

    Eva

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