As every year, in 2025 all taxpayers in the canton of Thurgau will receive the request to submit their tax return for the previous tax year. Official tax forms are sent out at the beginning of 2025. This marks the start of the annual process of fulfilling tax obligations for the 2024 tax year. While some taxpayers can gather their documents quickly and submit their return on time, others may need more time. In these cases, it is possible to request a deadline extension.
But what exactly should you know about requesting a deadline extension in Thurgau? Who is responsible? How do you correctly submit a request? And what happens if you miss the deadline or fail to apply for an extension? Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of the process for the 2024 tax year.
Unlike in some other cantons, municipal tax offices in Thurgau are responsible for the tax returns of individuals. This means taxpayers must address their questions or extension requests directly to the tax office of their municipality of residence.
Who reports to which tax office?
Unlimited tax liability: Individuals residing in Thurgau are subject to taxation based on personal affiliation. The responsible office is the tax office of their municipality of residence.
Limited tax liability: Non-residents with economic connections to Thurgau (e.g., property or business activities) are subject to limited taxation. The responsible tax office is that of the municipality where the taxable connection is located.
For the 2024 tax year in Thurgau, the following deadlines apply:
Standard submission deadline: April 30, 2025
Maximum extension: November 30, 2025
This means all taxpayers must submit their tax return by April 30, 2025, unless an extension has been granted. A later submission up to November 30, 2025 is only possible with an approved extension.
The good news: requesting an extension is straightforward and in many municipalities can be done online. Most municipalities in Thurgau provide online forms for this purpose.
After submitting the form, you usually receive a confirmation. Alternatively, requests can also be made by phone or in writing, though the online option is convenient and easy to document.
When can you extend the deadline?
Most municipalities grant an initial extension until June 30, 2025 or September 30, 2025. A
second extension can allow submission up to November 30, 2025. However, the tax office is not obligated to approve all extension requests,
particularly if submitted very late or without sufficient justification.
Costs for an extension
The first extension is usually free of charge. For subsequent or particularly long extensions, for example until November 30, 2025, fees may
apply, varying by municipality. Check your municipality’s website early for the exact rules.
If you fail to submit your tax return by April 30, 2025, or by the approved extension, you will typically receive a reminder, often with an additional fee. If you still do not respond, the tax office can make an estimated assessment at its discretion. This can result in higher taxes, as the office may not take into account deductions or allowances that would benefit you.
Requesting an extension gives you time to carefully gather all documents and submit a complete and accurate tax return. This is particularly useful if you are waiting for documents from third parties such as banks, insurance companies, or pension funds. Extensions are also helpful for more complex situations, such as self-employment or property ownership.
Tax forms for 2024: sent early 2025
Standard submission deadline: April 30, 2025
Maximum extension: November 30, 2025
Responsible office: municipal tax office of residence or the municipality of the taxable asset
Application: online, in writing, or by phone
Costs: first extension usually free; later extensions may incur fees
Consequences of missing the deadline: reminder, late fees, estimated assessment
If you cannot submit your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025, you should request an extension early, ideally online through your municipality’s website. This helps you avoid unnecessary reminders, fees, or estimated assessments. Use the extended deadline to ensure your tax return is complete and accurate, securing your rights and potential tax benefits.