DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE URGES TAXPAYERS TO MEET APRIL 15TH FILING DEADLINE

The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding taxpayers that the April 15th deadline for filing 2024 state individual income tax returns is fast approaching. The agency began accepting returns on January 27th, coinciding with the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) acceptance of federal returns.

This year, Illinois is participating in the free IRS Direct File program, allowing eligible taxpayers to file their federal returns directly with the IRS. Information from federal returns can then be easily transferred into MyTax Illinois to file state income taxes at no cost. Taxpayers can check their eligibility for Direct File at directfile.irs.gov.

In addition to filing Form IL-1040 for free through MyTax Illinois, taxpayers can also use the site to make payments, respond to inquiries from the department, and track the status of refunds with the “Where’s My Refund?” link. They can also look up IL-PINs, estimated tax payments, and amounts reported on Form 1099-G.

If a taxpayer electronically files an accurate Illinois return, they can expect to receive a direct deposit refund in about four weeks.

In 2024, IDOR processed nearly 6.2 million IL-1040 returns, with just under 5.7 million filed electronically—91.5% of total submissions. Taxpayers may also choose to file using tax software, through a professional, or via paper Form IL-1040.

Taxpayers unable to meet the April 15th deadline will automatically receive a six-month extension, pushing the new due date to October 15^th.   However, it’s important to note that an extension to file does not extend the time to pay. Any taxes owed must be paid by April 15^th to avoid penalties and interest. If taxpayers owe taxes and cannot file on time, they can use Form IL-505-I, Automatic Extension Payment for Individuals.

For tax-related inquiries, IDOR provides assistance without the need to wait for an agent. Taxpayers can reach out at 1-800-732-8866 or 217-782-3336. Free language assistance is available for individuals with limited English proficiency.

IDOR will extend telephone hours to assist taxpayers with last-minute questions today ( Monday, April 14^th), from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and tomorrow  (Tuesday, April 15^th),  from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

For the latest information, forms, schedules, and instructions for the 2025 tax season, please visit IDOR’s website at tax.illinois.gov.