4 States That Have Extended Tax Deadlines in 2026 — What It Means for Your Return
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Angela Corry
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For most Americans, federal income tax returns are due April 15 of the year following the tax year. But in disaster-affected areas, the IRS usually extends tax deadlines to support the people affected. These extensions automatically apply to eligible individuals and businesses in federally declared disaster zones.
Here are the four states that have been affected by a federally declared disaster, where some areas might qualify for a tax filing or payment extension.
Alaska
- New deadline: May 1
- Covered areas: Lower Kuskokwim Regional Educational Attendance Area; Lower Yukon Regional Educational Attendance Area; Northwest Arctic Borough
This extension applies to areas affected by severe storms, flooding and remnants of Typhoon Halong that began Oct. 8, 2025. It also covers IRA and HSA contributions, estimated payments and certain payroll and excise filings. Check the IRS notice for Alaska for full details.
Louisiana
- New deadline: March 31
- Covered areas: Whole state
After the Jan. 22 winter ice storm, Louisiana received statewide relief. Penalties on certain payroll and excise deposits are waived if paid within IRS guidance. Check the IRS notice for Louisiana for full details.
Missouri
- New deadline: March 30
- Covered areas: Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Cooper, Douglas, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Madison, Maries, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Ste. Genevieve, Stoddard, Texas, Vernon, Washington, Wayne, Webster counties
Relief applies to parts of Missouri hit by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding beginning March 30, 2025. Eligible taxpayers in these counties also have relief for estimated payments and retirement account contributions. Check the IRS notice for Missouri for full details.
Montana
- New deadline: May 1
- Covered areas: Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Lincoln, Sanders counties
Following severe storms and flooding that began Dec. 10, 2025, the IRS granted relief to affected Montana residents and businesses. Returns, payments and some quarterly filings due during the covered period are included. Check the IRS notice for Montana for full details.
Using Extra Time Wisely
An extension to file doesn’t always mean an extension to pay unless specifically stated in the IRS relief notice for the relevant state. Anyone in an affected area should confirm their eligibility before assuming it applies to them, and double-check dates and payment schedules.
While the extra time can be essential for anyone dealing with a disaster, it can be helpful in giving people a chance to review deductions and confirm eligibility for credits. As affected taxpayers can make IRA or HSA contributions up to the extended deadline under the IRS disaster relief rules, it can also help maximize retirement savings. Filing early within the extension window can help speed up refunds and reduce the risk of missed paperwork.
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