Tax season is quickly coming to a close and the April 17 deadline to file your taxes in Massachusetts is approaching, faster than Hellen Obiri gets to that finish line, and Obiri won the marathon last year! So run, don’t walk to the FAQ below and make sure you complete those taxes immediately and check out some of the tips below on unique tax breaks in Massachusetts:
When is the deadline to file taxes in Massachusetts
The deadline to file in Massachusetts is Wednesday, April 17. Normally it is April 15 but because April 15 is a holiday in the Commonwealth and April 16 is Emancipation Day, a holiday in D.C., the deadline is the 17th.
As stated on the IRS website, “Taxpayers living in Maine or Massachusetts have until April 17, 2024, due to the Patriot’s Day and Emancipation Day holidays. If a taxpayer resides in a federally declared disaster area, they also may have additional time to file.”
Can I get an extension to file
If you do not believe you’ll be able to file by April 17, you must file for an extension. However, this still must be prompted before and not after April 17.
Extensions will shift the filing due date to October 15, 2024. Both individuals and fiduciary tax extension forms can be found online.
How can I file my taxes for free
Massachusetts partnered with certain e-file providers to create free tax filing options for those who can file themselves or are unable to afford CPA services. This year’s free e-filing partners include:
- IRS Free File program delivered by 1040.com
- 1040NOW
- IRS Free File program delivered by FreeTaxUSA
- Cash App
- OnLine Taxes
- MassTax Connect
Each free e-file provider sets different criteria to qualify for the free filing option based on income, veteran status, and more. Find out which one you qualify for here.
What documents do I need to file my taxes
There are basic documents that almost everyone requires to collect or pay taxes. The most commonly requested documents from which you’ll record information include:
- Wage and earning statements such as a W-2
- Government issued ID such as a license
- Health Insurance document such as 1095 A,B, or C form (required in Massachusetts filing)
Other potential information required might be interest paid on student loans, dividend statements, charitable contributions and more.
Is there anything else I should know
Find more info and FAQ on Massachusetts taxes on mass.gov. And if you’re shocked by the final tax return quote, don’t be.
How high are Massachusetts income taxes
Massachusetts recently received a “D grade” tax rating and is considered the 11th “least tax friend state in America” (at least for individuals) with about 10% of income going to taxes which averages to $9,355. Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire made the top 10 least friendly, while Rhode Island and Maine were also in the top 20 highest income taxes.
The state with the worst taxes according to the MoneyGeek study is Illinois, and New Jersey trails right behind.