Tax Filing Extensions for California Wildfire Victims: What You Need to Know

Our hearts go out to you during this unimaginable time. The devastation caused by the wildfires is not just about the loss of homes or belongings but the disruption to lives, dreams, and a sense of safety. As you face the long road ahead—whether it's rebuilding, recovering, or simply finding the strength to move forward—we want to remind you that communities across the country stand with you. In this moment of hardship, we’ve seen incredible examples of resilience, bravery, and compassion. It’s proof that even in the darkest of times, hope continues to shine.

In response, the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) and the IRS have extended tax deadlines to provide relief and support for individuals and businesses impacted by these disasters. I understand the added stress these events can bring to managing finances and taxes. Let’s walk through the details of these extensions and how they can help at this moment.

The extension is not just about deadlines—it’s about recognizing the hardships faced by wildfire victims and giving them space to rebuild without the immediate pressure of tax filings. If you’ve been affected, this relief can give you valuable time to focus on recovery while ensuring your financial and tax obligations are handled appropriately.

Both the IRS and FTB have aligned their deadlines to simplify the process. For eligible individuals and businesses, most tax filings, including quarterly estimated payments and 2024 tax returns, have been extended to October 15, 2025. This extension applies to taxpayers in the Los Angeles County disaster zones.

Key Deadlines Extended

These tax returns are all automatically extended for Federal and California purposes until October 15, 2025. Here’s what the relief covers:

2024 Tax Returns: All tax returns for taxpayers in the Los Angeles County wildfire declared disaster zones have automatic extensions until October 15, 2025. Tax returns include individual tax returns, partnership tax returns, S-Corporation tax returns, corporate returns, tax-exempt returns, and fiduciary returns.

This link provides more information of 2024 and 2025 disaster zones and what the deadlines are.

Quarterly Estimated Payments: The deadlines for payments originally due on January 15, 2025, April 15, 2025, June 15, 2025, and September 15, 2025 have also been extended to October 15, 2025.

Payroll and Excise Taxes: Penalties for late payroll and excise tax deposits due on January 7, 2025 and before Jan 22, 2025 will be abated as long as tax deposits are made by January 22, 2025. will be waived as long as the deposits are made by the extended date.

You can read the full IRS Rev Proc here.

What has not been extended?

Information returns are not being extended. Information returns include W2s, 1094, 1095, 1097, 1098, 1042-S, 3921, 3922 or 8027. and all 1099 series.

This extra time can help ease the burden of compiling records, filing necessary forms, and managing financial recovery. Use this time to focus on rebuilding your home, business, or community.

At MKHS Tax Group, we’re here to support those facing these difficult times. Whether it’s navigating the extended deadlines, organizing your finances, or identifying ways to reduce your tax burden, we’re committed to helping you find clarity and peace of mind.

The extended deadlines are a compassionate response to a difficult situation, but they don’t erase the need for sound financial planning. We encourage you to reach out if you need help understanding these extensions or ensuring your tax filings are accurate and complete. If you have any questions or need assistance, email us at info@mkhstaxgroup.com. Together, we can make sure your financial health remains on track while you focus on recovery and rebuilding. You are in our hearts, in our thoughts, and in our prayers.