To file a tax extension for your U.S. individual income tax return, follow these steps:
- Use Form 4868 : File IRS Form 4868, "Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return," to request an automatic extension. This extends your filing deadline from the usual April 15 to October 15
- Filing Methods :
- Electronically : File Form 4868 online using IRS e-file through tax software or a tax professional. You will receive an electronic acknowledgment once filed
* **By Mail** : Download and complete the paper Form 4868, then mail it to the appropriate IRS address listed in the form instructions. If mailing a payment, include it with the form
* **Pay Online and Check the Extension Box** : Make a payment for any estimated taxes owed online and check the box indicating this payment is part of an extension request. This method grants the extension without filing a separate form
- Estimate and Pay Taxes Owed : Although the extension gives you more time to file, you must still estimate and pay any taxes owed by the original filing deadline (usually April 15) to avoid interest and late-payment penalties. The extension is only for filing, not for payment
- Special Cases :
- If you are a U.S. citizen or resident living abroad on the tax deadline, you automatically get a two-month extension to file and pay without submitting Form 4868
* For businesses, deadlines and extension rules vary by entity type and fiscal year end
- Confirmation : Once your extension is filed and accepted, you have until October 15 to file your return without late-filing penalties. However, penalties and interest may still apply if you do not pay your taxes owed by the original deadline
In summary, the easiest way to file a tax extension is to submit Form 4868 electronically or by mail by the original tax deadline, estimate and pay any taxes owed, and keep confirmation of your extension filing for your records
