Tax season is stressful enough — and just when you think you’ve nailed your federal return, it hits you: What about your state taxes? If you live in a state that collects income tax, you’ll also need to file a separate state return. And yes, each state has its own deadline.
So, when exactly is the deadline for state tax returns in 2025? Let’s break it all down.
Explore more in this 『2025 Tax Filing Guide』 Series →
2025 Tax Filing Guide: Deductions, Credits, and More
├─ Tax Deadline 2025
├─ Top 10 Tax Deductions
├─ Last-Minute Filing Tips
├─ CTC & EITC in 2025?
├─ IRS Forms to File Your Taxes
├─ Tax Extension?
├─ Tax Benefits If You’re Self-Employed
├─ Capital Gains Tax Explained
├─ ✅ Deadline for State Tax (You are here)
├─ What Happen If You Miss the Tax Deadline?
├─ Already Filed Taxes and Got a 1042-S?
└─ It’s Almost Over — File Your Taxes Now Before It’s Too Late
🧾 Do All States Have Income Tax?
Nope — only 41 states and Washington, D.C. currently impose a state income tax. That means 9 states have no income tax at all:
- Alaska
- Florida
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Washington
- Wyoming
If you live in one of those states — lucky you! You don’t have to file a state return for regular income.
📆 State Tax Return Deadlines for 2025
Most states follow the federal tax deadline of April 15, 2025, but there are a few exceptions and extensions to watch out for. Here’s a helpful table:
| State | 2025 Deadline |
|---|---|
| Delaware | April 30, 2025 |
| Iowa | April 30, 2025 |
| Hawaii | April 21, 2025 |
| South Carolina | May 1, 2025 |
| Virginia | May 1, 2025 |
| All other states | April 15, 2025 (unless noted) |
📌 Note: Check your state tax department for final updates
📂 How to File Your State Tax Return
Each state has its own filing system. Some use their own portals, while others allow you to file through tax software (like TurboTax or H&R Block).
To file, you’ll usually need:
- Copy of your federal return
- Your W-2s and 1099s
- Proof of state income, deductions, or credits
- State-specific forms (e.g., CA Form 540, NY IT-201)
Most states offer free e-file options on their Department of Revenue websites for qualified filers.
🔍 Not sure where to start with your 2025 taxes?
🕒 Can You File an Extension?
Yes — most states allow you to request an extension to file your return. However, extensions do not give you more time to pay any taxes owed.
If you need more time:
- File your federal extension (Form 4868) — most states accept this as notice
- Pay at least 90% of your state tax liability to avoid penalties
⏳ Running Late? Should You File an Extension?
Be sure to check your state’s tax website for details — rules vary.
🔗 Resources by State
Need to find your state’s tax deadlines and forms?
✅ Final Tips
- Don’t assume your federal return covers state taxes — they’re separate.
- Double-check your state’s deadline — especially if you live in DE, IA, HI, SC or VA.
- File early if you’re due a state refund — many arrive faster than federal refunds.
- Use your state’s free e-file system if eligible — save money and file faster.
📘 Related Guides
Want to file smart this year?
🔹 2025 Tax Filing Guide: Deductions, Credits, and More
🔹 Tax Deadline 2025: Everything You Need to Know
🔹 What IRS Forms Do You Need to File?
