To be considered filed on time, your tax return must be postmarked by the tax deadline.

If you don’t get your taxes filed by the income tax deadline, you can file an extension, which will automatically give you an extra six months to file.

You will not, however, get an extension to pay your taxes. To avoid any penalties, you’ll still need to pay your taxes due by April 15.

The income tax deadline for tax returns with an extension is October 15, 2010.

Tax Extensions

If you are in the same situation, but your return is not going to get done by the end of the day, be sure to file an extension.

Estimated Tax Payments

In addition to your 2008 return deadline today, if you are self employed, you must also make your first 2009 estimated tax payment.

For a complete listing of 2009 tax due dates, see the 2009 Tax Calendar.