Tax Deadline Looms as Last-Minute Filers Scramble

Tax expert warns of costly mistakes for disorganized filers rushing to beat the clock

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:57am

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An extreme close-up of financial documents, a calculator, and a ledger, all rendered in a heavy, industrial style that conveys the serious nature of tax preparation.As the tax deadline approaches, the behind-the-scenes work of tax preparation takes on a sense of urgency and gravity.Today in Birmingham

As the April 15 tax deadline approaches, tax preparer Alicia White is seeing a surge of last-minute filers racing to get their returns submitted. White warns that disorganization and lack of preparation can lead to costly mistakes, including the need to file for an extension. She advises taxpayers to be organized, vet their tax preparers carefully, and review their returns thoroughly before signing.

Why it matters

The tax filing deadline is a critical annual event that impacts millions of Americans. With many taxpayers waiting until the last minute, there is an increased risk of errors, delays, and potential issues with the IRS. This story highlights the importance of preparation and diligence when it comes to filing taxes, especially for those with complex returns or who are working with a tax preparer.

The details

White, who has 20 years of experience in tax preparation, says the last-minute rush is a familiar pattern she sees every year. She categorizes tax filers into three groups: those who file early to get their refunds, those who file in March as regular customers, and the last-minute filers who often have to pay taxes. White warns that the last-minute filers face additional challenges, as disorganization can significantly slow down the filing process. She advises taxpayers not to bring in unorganized piles of receipts and documents, as that will require extra time for her to sort through and prepare. In many cases, the delay leads to filing for an extension, which gives taxpayers more time but does not eliminate the need to file altogether.

  • The April 15 tax deadline is approaching.
  • White says she filed around 42 extensions last year, up from her usual 3-4.

The players

Alicia White

Owner and operator of JMA Enterprises, a tax preparation business, with 20 years of experience in the industry.

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What they’re saying

“When you come in at this late stage, please be organized. If you're not organized and I have to do calculations, I have to do bookkeeping, not only am I going to charge you for it, you're going to get an extension.”

— Alicia White, Tax Preparer

“Don't bring me a box of receipts. Don't bring me a bag of papers, which has your other receipts, because it's going to take me time to sort them, go through them, organize them, add them up, and then do your taxes. All of that has to be done before your taxes are done.”

— Alicia White, Tax Preparer

“Make sure that you get a copy of your return when you get your taxes completed. There are several people out here that are not giving people copies of their returns.”

— Alicia White, Tax Preparer

What’s next

With just days remaining before the tax deadline, White urges taxpayers not to wait until the last minute and to ensure they are fully prepared with organized financial documents. She also advises taxpayers to carefully vet their tax preparers and review their returns before signing.

The takeaway

This story highlights the importance of preparation and diligence when it comes to filing taxes, especially for those with complex returns or who are working with a tax preparer. Disorganization and last-minute rushing can lead to costly mistakes and the need for filing extensions, which can have serious consequences.