AUGUSTA, Ga. - Tuesday is the federal tax deadline but in South Carolina and Georgia, residents have until May 1 to file both federal and state taxes following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

The new deadline is May 1.

Why the extension?

The extension follows a major disaster declaration issued by President Joe Biden after Hurricane Helene swept through the Southeast in October 2024. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared all 159 counties in Georgia disaster areas, triggering an automatic delay in federal and state filing deadlines. Similar extensions were granted in Florida, Alabama, North and South Carolina, and Tennessee.

When will returns be processed?

According to the Georgia Department of Revenue, the state began processing 2024 individual income tax returns on Feb. 3, 2025. The agency emphasized its commitment to secure and efficient processing.

“The Department of Revenue is committed to processing income tax returns in a timely manner, maintaining the highest levels of security to protect confidential taxpayer information, and guarding state tax dollars against fraud,” said State Revenue Commissioner Frank O’Connell.

In 2024, the DOR processed more than 5.4 million individual income tax returns, with an average turnaround time of just over two days for electronically filed, error-free returns.

Important reminders for Georgia filers

• Most error-free, electronically filed returns are processed within five business days.
• Refunds are typically issued within 21 days from the date of filing.
• First-time Georgia filers—or anyone who hasn’t filed in the state in the past five years—will receive their refund via paper check.

With the new deadline, you may feel the urge to delay your filing, but make sure you choose the right help and take steps to avoid common mistakes.

Choosing the right tax preparer

1. Ask about credentials: Look for professionals who are enrolled agents (EAs); Certified Public Accountants (CPAs); or tax attorneys.
2. Be wary of promises of “big refunds.” Steer clear of pop-up preparers who inflate deductions or will not sign their names on the return. If the preparer’s only credential is a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number), they’re allowed to file returns, but their qualifications may be minimal, increasing the chance for errors.
3. Use verified resources. Use the IRS Tax Professional Directory to find vetted tax professionals near you.
4. File for free if you qualify: If you earn less than $84,000 annually, the IRS’s Free File Program offers filing through trusted partners at no cost.

Protect your identity

Be sure to request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS. This adds an extra layer of security to ensure no one else files a return in your name. You can learn more and apply for one here.

Already filed and waiting?

You can track your refund using the Where’s My Refund? tool.

If you owe taxes, avoid tax relief companies that often charge thousands. Instead, check out IRS repayment plans for a more affordable solution.

Helpful links and resources

From the IRS:

• Understanding Tax Return Preparer Credentials and Qualifications
• IRS Tax Professional Directory
• IRS Free File Program (for incomes under $84,000)
• Identity Protection PIN FAQs
• How to pick a tax preparer

From the Georgia Department of Revenue:

• Georgia DOR - File electronically and download tax forms.
• Check if you Qualify for free filing through the Free File Alliance.
• Explore Georgia filing FAQs and security tips.

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