If you live or own a business in California, you might be in for some good news. The IRS has announced tax relief for people affected by the wildfires that started on January 7, 2025. This means that certain tax deadlines have been pushed back to October 15, 2025.
If you’re in one of the impacted areas, this could give you extra time to file and pay your taxes without penalties.
Who Qualifies for This Tax Relief?
The tax extension applies to both individuals and businesses in areas affected by wildfires and strong winds. To qualify, you must be in a location that has been officially declared a disaster zone by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). At the moment, Los Angeles County is included, but more areas may be added.
What Does the IRS Extension Cover?
If you’re eligible, you now have until October 15, 2025, to:
- File your federal tax returns
- Make tax payments that were originally due earlier in the year
This extension follows FEMA’s disaster declaration, which allows the IRS to grant extra time for filing and payments. If you’re in an affected area, you don’t need to take any special steps—your extension is automatic.
Key IRS Deadlines You Need to Know
If you do not qualify for the tax relief, the standard deadline to file your 2024 federal income tax return remains April 15, 2025. However, if you are eligible for the extension, you’ll have additional time for the following deadlines:
| Tax Type | Original Due Date | New Extended Deadline |
| 2024 Federal Income Tax Return | April 15, 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
| Estimated Tax Payment (Q4 2024) | January 15, 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
| Estimated Tax Payment (Q1 2025) | April 15, 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
| Estimated Tax Payment (Q2 2025) | June 16, 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
| Estimated Tax Payment (Q3 2025) | September 15, 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
What If More Counties Are Added?
The IRS may extend this relief to other counties if more areas are declared disaster zones. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, keep an eye on the IRS website or FEMA updates and also check California Wildfire Relief Get $770 Stimulus Check.
FAQs on Are You Eligible for Tax Relief
Who automatically qualifies for this tax relief?
If you live or own a business in Los Angeles County (or other officially declared disaster zones), you qualify automatically. You don’t need to apply—the IRS will recognize your eligibility based on your address.
Do I still have to pay my taxes?
Yes, but you have more time to do so. The IRS is not canceling your tax bill, only extending your deadlines to file and pay without penalties.
Where can I get more information?
Visit the IRS website for updates: IRS Official Announcement.