Deadline approaches to file federal tax returns, extensions

The deadline to file federal income taxes is less than a week away, but it’s not too late to get your paperwork in or seek an extension.

Kim McHenry, a franchisee of H&R Block in Leechburg and Vandergrift, has been reminding clients of the looming Tuesday deadline. It’s the busiest time of year for tax preparers.

“If we have 25 people come in on one day, there’s no way I can get it all done,” McHenry said.

For the week ending March 24, the IRS reported that 80.6 million returns were filed, which was a 0.8% drop compared to the same period last year. However, about 1.9% more returns have been processed compared to last year.

“There’s still time to file, and, especially for those who might end up owing the IRS money, they should at least file an extension by April 18 to avoid some penalties and fees,” said Elaina Mitchel, tax project manager for Just Harvest. The South Side-based nonprofit offers free tax preparation for qualifying households and individuals.

“Even if you don’t make it by the 18th, that doesn’t mean that you can’t still file your tax return and get your refund,” Mitchel said. “There are resources to help you file after the deadline.”

Those looking to file an extension can use IRS Free File, which gives people until Oct. 15 to file a return. Tax preparers can also file the extension request for their clients.

People can also get an extension by electronically paying all or part of your estimated income tax due and indicating the payment is for an extension.

Just Harvest, which provides services at five Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites in Allegheny County along with a virtual service, has seen a pretty steady stream of clients so far this year.

Mitchel estimates that they’ve completed about 2,300 returns.

“All of our appointments are booked until April 18,” Mitchel said. “So the need is definitely there.”

“We’re doing more prior-year returns,” Mitchel noted. “Likely for people during the pandemic, it wasn’t a priority for them to get their taxes filed, and maybe it took a backseat to a lot of other concerns. Getting people caught up has been another thing that’s come up a lot.”

Teresa Berlin, district manager for Jackson Hewitt in Greensburg said the firm has begun operating with extended hours.

“We’re also bringing in additional staff and we were open on Easter,” she said.

Disappointing refunds

One thing people should be aware of is that they’re likely going to see smaller refunds this year.

McHenry noted that many pandemic-era benefits, like the Child Tax Credit and stimulus payments, have expired, leaving folks without that financial boost.

“Still, on the Pennsylvania side, it’s a little nicer because the state allows child care expenses this year,” she noted.

Berlin called it “refund shock.”

“When they come in to file, they’re wondering, ‘Why is my refund so low?’ or ‘Why am I not getting a refund?’” she said. “That’s one of the biggest things we’re seeing this year.”