What happens if you can’t pay your taxes in MS before the deadline? What to know
UPDATE: Following the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s disaster declaration due to winter storms in Mississippi, the federal tax deadline for individuals and businesses across the state has been extended to June 8, the Internal Revenue Service announced in an April 14 news release.
The original story continues below.
As the end of tax season draws near, officials are urging taxpayers to submit their returns and payments on time to avoid incurring late fees.
The last day to submit 2025 federal and state taxes and make any payments is Wednesday, April 15, according to the Internal Revenue Service and the State of Mississippi Department of Revenue.
For several individuals, however, making payments by the deadline isn’t feasible this year. So, what should you do if you can’t pay on time in Mississippi?
Here’s what to know.
What to do if you can’t pay your taxes in MS
If you know you won’t be able to pay your taxes by the deadline this year, there are some things you can do to avoid penalties and late fees.
The IRS recommends paying as much as possible upfront to reduce interest accrual and penalties. These are some other options for payment, according to the agency:
- Consider financing the full payment through loans from a financial institution or a credit card as interest rate and fees may be lower than those from the IRS
- See if you qualify for either a short-term or long-term payment plan
- See if you qualify for an Offer in Compromise, an agreement that resolves your tax liability by the payment of a reduced amount
- Request the IRS temporarily delay collection
What happens if you don’t file taxes?
Even if you can’t pay your taxes, you should still file by the due date. Failure to file will result in a penalty fee, according to the IRS.
These are the fees for individuals and most businesses, according to the agency:
- 5% of taxes due for each month or partial month the return is late, up to 25%
- $525 or 100% of the underpayment, whichever is less, for more than 60 days past due
- Collection process and criminal prosecution if you never file
Can you request an extension?
Yes, taxpayers can file for a tax extension if they need more time to get their documents together, have an unanticipated event or for certain tax planning purposes, according to TurboTax.
A tax extension is not an extension of time to pay, and Form 4868 must be filed by the original date of your return, according to the IRS.
This story was originally published April 2, 2026 at 5:00 AM.
