For some, June means summer vacations, backyard barbecues, weddings, graduations, and yes, the NBA Finals.
For many, taxes are probably among the last things they want to think about right now.
Unfortunately, the IRS doesn’t take the summer off.
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While the April 15 tax filing deadline has come and gone, there are important IRS deadlines to keep on your radar this month. And if you’re still waiting for a tax refund, there are a few developments worth noting.
So…here’s more about key IRS deadlines for June, refund processing, and some common summer activities that could affect next year’s tax bill
June 15 estimated taxes
The second estimated tax payment for the 2026 tax year is due June 15, 2026.
The U.S. tax system operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, meaning taxpayers are generally expected to pay taxes throughout the year as income is earned. While traditional employees typically have taxes withheld from each paycheck, that isn’t always the case for other types of income.
Estimated tax payments are commonly required for:
- Self-employed workers
- Freelancers and independent contractors
- Gig workers
- Small business owners
- Investors with significant dividend, interest, or capital gains income
- Landlords receiving rental income
- Some retirees who don’t have enough tax withheld from their retirement income
Failing to pay enough tax during the year can result in IRS underpayment penalties, even if you ultimately pay your full tax bill when you file your return.
Taxpayers can use Form 1040-ES to estimate how much they should pay. After the June payment, the remaining estimated tax deadlines for 2026 are September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027.
For more information, see our report: When Are Estimated Tax Payments Due?
June 15 filing deadline for Americans living abroad
June 15 is also an important date for U.S. citizens and resident aliens whose tax home and abode are outside the United States and Puerto Rico.
These taxpayers receive an automatic two-month extension beyond the standard April filing deadline. As a result, many expats have until June 15, 2026, to file their 2025 federal income tax returns.
It’s important to remember that an extension applies to filing your return, not to actually paying your taxes. (That payment was due in April.) Interest generally begins accruing on unpaid balances after the regular April tax deadline.
Keep in mind:
- Many Americans living overseas may qualify for tax benefits, like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion or the Foreign Tax Credit, but they generally must file a U.S. tax return to claim them.
- Taxpayers who need additional time can typically request an extension until October by filing IRS Form 4868.
IRS refund status: Why some taxpayers may receive refunds in June
The IRS continues to issue refunds throughout the summer, and many taxpayers who filed later in the season may still be receiving their refunds in June.
- For most taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit, refunds are generally issued within about 21 days.
- However, not every return moves through the system that quickly, particularly if additional review or corrections are required.
One issue affecting some taxpayers this year involves IRS Notice CP53E.
As Kiplinger has reported, this notice is generally issued when a direct deposit is rejected, most often due to incorrect or mismatched bank account information or a financial institution declining the deposit. When that happens, the IRS typically eventually issues the refund as a paper check.
While taxpayers still receive their money, the switch from electronic payments to mailed checks can add processing time and create delays that many weren’t expecting. So, the CP53E letters, which have reportedly been sent to millions of taxpayers this year following the tax agency’s move to phase out paper refund checks, have caused confusion.
If you’re still waiting on a refund, the IRS recommends checking the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov or logging directly into your official IRS online account.
For more information, see our IRS tax refund calendar for 2026.
Summer activities that could affect your next tax bill
Even if you’ve already filed your taxes this year, several common summer activities can affect the return you’ll file next year, in early 2027.
Some common summer events that can affect taxes include:
Starting a Summer Job
Students and seasonal workers often take on summer employment. Keep in mind, though, that even part-time work can affect tax withholding and potentially create a tax filing requirement.
Taking on Gig Work or a Side Hustle
Driving for a rideshare company, freelancing, selling products online, or earning income through an app (just a few examples) can create taxable income that isn’t subject to tax withholding. That may mean estimated tax payments are necessary for some to avoid penalties later.
Getting Married
Summer remains one of the most popular wedding seasons in the U.S.. Marriage can affect filing status, tax brackets, deductions, credits, and withholding. Newlyweds may want to review their Form W-4s to ensure enough tax is being withheld from their paychecks.
Welcoming a Child
Having a baby or adopting a child may make taxpayers eligible for valuable tax benefits, including the Child Tax Credit and other family-related tax breaks.
Buying or Selling a Home
A home purchase can affect deductions and tax planning, while a home sale could potentially trigger capital gains considerations depending on the circumstances.
Changes in Retirement Income
Some retirees begin taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) during the year or adjust withholding on Social Security and retirement plans. Those changes can affect overall tax liability.
June tax concerns: Bottom line
The IRS is reminding taxpayers to review their withholding and tax situation whenever major life or income changes occur.
But keep in mind that midyear is a good time not only to review your potential tax liability and make adjustments that might lower your next tax bill, but also to take a holistic look at your finances.
Overall? Everyone’s tax and financial situation is different. So, if you have any concerns about whether the June tax deadlines affect you, it’s best to consult with a tax professional or certified financial planner who can provide tailored advice and guidance.
