The U.S. Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service announced last week that the federal income tax filing due date for individuals for the 2020 tax year has been automatically extended from April 15 to May 17.

Virginia followed suit soon after, extending the deadline for filing state taxes from May 1 to May 17.

“This continues to be a tough time for many people, and the IRS wants to continue to do everything possible to help taxpayers navigate the unusual circumstances related to the pandemic, while also working on important tax administration responsibilities,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “Even with the new deadline, we urge taxpayers to consider filing as soon as possible, especially those who are owed refunds. Filing electronically with direct deposit is the quickest way to get refunds, and it can help some taxpayers more quickly receive any remaining stimulus payments they may be entitled to.”

Individual taxpayers can also postpone federal income tax paymen...