Whew! Extra Days Allowed to Pay Taxes

Ordinarily, today is one of the most infamous days of the year. A glance at the calendar shows that it's April 15, the date that tax filings are due. Uh-oh.

But wait. Before swallowing hard or panicking, be assured that we get a reprieve this year.

Because April 15 falls on a weekend and Monday is Emancipation Day, a holiday in the nation's capital, the dreadful deadline has been moved to Tuesday.

For those who have yet to file and want help, Pinole Patch's Directory has a list of local companies that offer tax services. For those who don't need professional assistance but have yet to file, there is still time to do so on their own. Typically late tax filers risk financial penalties.

As taxpayers who are under the gun are reminded annually, it's best to file by the deadline, estimating the amount owed and file for a six-month extension. That will protect them from the late fees.

To file online or for details, visit the Internal Revenue Service and the California Franchise Tax Board. Also, see the attached brief video by the IRS.