This article offers essential last-minute tips for filing taxes before the April 18 deadline. Some taxpayers get more time automatically, including people in federally declared disaster areas, service members in combat zones, and certain low-income earners.

The guide breaks down different sources of taxable income and the records you will need to finish your paperwork. It recommends organizing your documents early and double-checking your math before you hit send. If you cannot file your return by the deadline, you can ask for a six-month extension by submitting Form 4868. However, you must still pay your estimated taxes by April 18 to avoid late-payment penalties.