Tax deadline extended to April 18

The Internal Revenue Service kicked off the 2011 tax season with the announcement that the April 15 filing deadline will be extended to April 18 this year.

Taxpayers have three extra days to file because April 15 falls on Emancipation Day, a holiday observed in Washington, D.C.

Some taxpayers need to wait until Feb. 14 to file this year so the IRS can re-program its systems to accommodate tax law changes enacted by President Barack Obama in December.

Taxpayers claiming itemized deductions on Schedule A, taxpayers claiming the Higher Education Tuition and Fees Deduction, and Taxpayers Claiming the Educator Expense Deduction should wait to file.

The IRS reminded taxpayers who are impacted by recent tax law changes that filing electronically is the best way to ensure an accurate return and a fast refund.

Taxpayers who request an extension will have until Oct. 17 to file.