Tax extension filers beware: Payments are still due to the IRS by April 15

Fox News reports that approximately 20 million Americans file tax extensions annually but often misunderstand that taxes owed remain due by the April 15 deadline; only the filing deadline extends to October. Mark Steber, chief tax officer at Jackson Hewitt Tax Services, is quoted explaining that missing the April 15 payment deadline triggers federal penalties and compounding daily interest, with failure-to-file penalties typically exceeding failure-to-pay penalties. The reporting is straightforward and sourced to a named expert with relevant credentials, and the core claim is corroborated by independent coverage from Fox Business, Detroit Free Press, and Columbus Dispatch outlets, all confirming the April 15 payment deadline and penalty structure. Readers should note that while the article accurately conveys IRS rules, the framing emphasizes negative consequences; watch for any IRS announcements about hardship relief or payment plan modifications as the deadline approaches.