What is the 2026 federal tax filing deadline?

April 15, 2026. If you are outside the US and Puerto Rico on that date, you get to June 15 to file, but interest on any unpaid amount still starts April 15. Disaster-area taxpayers may receive later dates when the IRS announces relief for affected counties.

How do I request more time to file with the IRS?

Submit Form 4868 by April 15. E-file it or use IRS Direct Pay and choose the extension option. Filing extends your return to October 15, but it does not extend time to pay. Make an estimated payment with your request to reduce interest and possible penalties.

What happens if I miss the tax filing deadline?

File as soon as possible and pay as much as you can. Penalties and interest grow the longer you wait. You can still file an extension if you are before October 15, but interest runs from April 15 on unpaid balances. Consider an IRS payment plan if needed.

How can I check my IRS refund status quickly?

Use “Where’s My Refund?” or the IRS2Go app. Status appears within 24 hours for e-filed returns. Most refunds arrive in 21 days via direct deposit. Delays are common if your return needs manual review or includes certain credits. Avoid calling unless the tool requests contact.

Can Tax Day affect the stock market?

Yes. Tax payments can prompt short-term selling to raise cash, while refunds can boost consumer spending. That may sway breadth and leadership in indices such as ^GSPC. Track spending data, sector moves, and liquidity around mid-April, and plan orders to avoid thin trading pockets.

Global Market Insights

^GSPC Today, February 15: IRS April 15 Deadline and Extensions Guide

ByDanny Kontos February 15, 2026February 15, 2026

The US tax filing deadline on April 15 shapes cash flows that can ripple into stocks, including ^GSPC. We explain what the date covers, how Form 4868 works, and why refund timing matters. For Indian investors in US assets, these timelines guide near-term risk. We keep it simple: what to pay by April 15, who gets extra time, and how to use refund status tracking. Use this roadmap to prepare trades and reduce surprise moves around Tax Day.