The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) announced that the state of Georgia is automatically extending the 2020 individual income tax filing and payment deadline from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021, without penalties or interest. This follows the announcement and is in conformance with the U.S. Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
“Aligning with this decision makes filing and paying both state and federal taxes as easy as possible for Georgia taxpayers,” State Revenue Commissioner David Curry said.
Georgians Receive Tax Deadline Extension
Similar to the IRS announcement, the relief provided by this extension is only for tax year 2020 individual state income tax payments and state individual income tax returns due on April 15, 2021. Since an individual must complete their federal income tax return prior to completing their Georgia return, the movement of the due date to be in alignment with the IRS will allow taxpayers to file their return upon completing their federal return. Individual taxpayers do not need to file forms or call the Department of Revenue (DOR) to qualify for this automatic tax filing and payment extension.
No Deadline Extension for State Estimated Income Tax Payments, Other Types of State Tax
It very important to note that the state estimated income tax payments due on April 15, 2021, are not included in the extension. These estimated payments are still due on April 15, 2021. Additionally, no extension is provided for the filing, payment, or deposit of any other type of state tax or for the filing of any state information returns. Of course, it is highly recommended that taxpayers attempt to file their income tax returns as early as possible and not wait until the revised due date unless necessary. For taxpayers expecting a refund, it is reported that the DOR issues most refunds within 21 days.
For more information regarding your state and local taxes, please contact Windham Brannon’s Tim Clancy, State Tax Practice leader.
