Still haven’t filed your taxes? Here’s what you need to know before the deadline

If death and taxes are the two certainties of life, procrastination might be inching into the top three.

“We have observed over the last 5 years a trend toward people filing later and this year it’s particularly pronounced,” said David Williams of Intuit Tax and Financial.

Almost 25% of filers are waiting until the bitter end, according to Turbo Tax.

Some taxpayers may be delaying this year due to confusion about new tax laws.

Complicated returns may need the help of a pro, but for simple returns, e-filing is not only the fastest option, it also allows procrastinators to go down to the wire.

According to Williams, the deadline to file is 11:59 p.m. on April 15.

It’s not too late to take advantage of the federal government’s “free file” program. Individuals with income $66,000 or less have tax software options to file federal and state returns at no cost.

All filers last minute or not should double check details to avoid mistakes and a delayed refund.

While you’ve got all of those financial documents out, experts say it’s a good time for an annual fiscal checkup.

“It is critical for folks at tax time not just to get the return done but take a moment to think about their financial lives,” Williams said.

If you need more time, you can request an extension, but you must file the extension request no later than midnight on April 15th. Remember, an extension to file doesn’t include an extension to pay! You must make your best estimate of what you owe and pay by the April deadline, or face interest costs and penalties.