April 18, 2022, is the deadline for filing your 2021 federal taxes with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Barring if you decide to file for an extension – giving you until October 15, 2022, to finish filing – you’ll need to make sure any paper returns are postmarked no later than April 18. Since that’s the case, you may be wondering if the post office is open late to make that easier. Here’s what you need to know about post office extended hours for Tax Day.
Are There Post Office Extended Hours for Tax Day?
On Tax Day, every post office will be open using its typical operating schedule at a minimum. In most cases, that means tax filers can get the postmark they need during the location’s regular hours.
While post office hours can vary, most open at some time during the 8:00 am to 9:00 am hour and close at some point between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm. However, larger cities may have longer operating windows, giving people in those areas more time.
Additionally, some post office locations are offering extended hours for Tax Day. Again, those may vary by location. Since that’s the case, you might need to check with your local post office for details. While you can find out the normal hours of a post office using the USPS location finder, the USPS site recommends calling to learn more about extended hours for Tax Day.
However, there may be other ways to find out, too. For instance, you might see articles in your local newspaper or reports on the radio or during news broadcasts that discuss the post office extended hours for Tax Day.
Making Sure Your Taxes Are Post Marked on Time
If you’re sending a paper return this year, you need to get them postmarked by April 18, 2022. Otherwise, the IRS considers your return late unless you have already filed an extension, and that can come with penalties.
Ideally, you want to get your paper return to the post office before April 18, 2022. One option is to use a dropbox inside the post office before that Monday, such as by going in to drop it off on the weekend.
If you need to pay for postage at the post office, plan to go no later than Friday, April 16, or Saturday, April 17, if your location has Saturday hours. That way, you have some room for error.
As long as the postmark is for April 18, 2022, how long it takes your return to arrive at an IRS location doesn’t matter. Since that’s the case, you don’t have to pay for expedited shipping.
Other Ways to Ensure Your Taxes Are Filed on Time
If you’re worried about meeting the deadline with a paper return, your best bet is to file electronically. As long as your return is submitted on April 18, 2022, you make the cutoff. Plus, you may be eligible for a free filing. Along with ensuring your return isn’t late, that can save you money, as you don’t have to pay for postage.
Just be aware that not everyone qualifies for the free filing service. If you may want to file electronically and are worried about the cost, check the free filing requirements in advance. That way, you’ll know if you’re eligible and, if not, can figure out which path is both cost-effective and convenient enough to put your mind at ease while ensuring you file on time.
Do you plan on taking advantage of the post office extended hours for Tax Day, or do you file electronically to avoid needing this kind of service? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Tamila McDonald has worked as a Financial Advisor for the military for past 13 years. She has taught Personal Financial classes on every subject from credit, to life insurance, as well as all other aspects of financial management. Mrs. McDonald is an AFCPE Accredited Financial Counselor and has helped her clients to meet their short-term and long-term financial goals.