Imagine breathing a little easier this tax season, not because you’ve filed on time, but because the IRS has handed you an unexpected extension.

Recently, the IRS rolled out a major tax filing and payment extension, but only for one specific state.

The move came after the state was declared a disaster zone by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in the wake of intense and damaging severe weather.

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But here’s the twist: the extension isn’t just for folks hit hard by natural disasters. It’s a statewide reprieve.

FEMA unlocked a set of emergency relief, including a tax break

The state in question is Tennessee, and if you are a resident in any of its 95 counties, you’re able to take advantage of the extended deadline.

Recent storms have battered parts of the Southeast, bringing powerful winds, flooding and tornadoes that disrupted homes, businesses and infrastructure. In response, FEMA declared the entire state a disaster zone, unlocking a broad set of emergency relief options, including this tax extension.

Now, all individuals and businesses in the state, regardless of whether they were personally impacted or not, have until Nov. 3, 2025, to file their federal returns and make any payments due. That’s more than half a year past the typical April 15 deadline.

According to the IRS, this relief is automatic and applies to all counties in the state.

Even if you’ve already filed, the payment extension still applies.

And, it’s not just Tennesseans who benefit. If you live outside the state but either work in Tennessee or do business there, you’re in the clear for the extended deadline too.

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Important details about the tax extension

Here’s what you need to know about the tax extension for Tennessee:

• Tax filing and payment deadlines for individuals, businesses and certain tax-exempt organizations have been pushed to Nov. 3, 2025.

• Estimated tax payments (typically due April 15, June 16, Sept, 15) are also delayed.

• Individual retirement account (IRA) and health savings account (HSA) contribution deadlines are extended as well, giving you extra time to maximize retirement and health savings for the 2024 tax year.

• Business tax filings, including payroll and excise taxes, are covered in most cases.

• If you were directly impacted by the storms, such as losing your home or being displaced, you may be eligible for additional relief beyond the blanket extension.

The IRS encourages those with unique circumstances to reach out directly, though you may need to be patient due to staffing shortages contributing to delays.

Tips for filing your taxes

Don’t forget about your taxes. Just because you may have more time doesn’t mean you should put off filing indefinitely. If you’re affected by the extension, set a calendar reminder to revisit your taxes in the summer.

Remember to talk to a tax professional. If you were impacted by severe weather or need clarity, a tax professional can help you interpret what’s covered and what’s not.

Hang onto all of your documentation. If you do apply for further relief, keep records of storm-related damage, expenses or displacement that may support your case.

Check state deadlines. While the IRS has granted federal relief, state tax deadlines may differ. Be sure to check with your state’s revenue department for updates.

Whether you’re dealing with storm recovery or just grateful for a little breathing room, this unexpected extension could make a big difference.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.