To get an extension on filing your federal income taxes in the U.S., you need to request more time before the original tax deadline (usually April 15). Here’s how to do it:
How to Get a Tax Filing Extension
- File IRS Form 4868 : This is the Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. You can submit it electronically through IRS Free File, tax software, a tax professional, or by mailing a paper form to the IRS. The form requires basic information like your name, address, and Social Security number
- Request by the tax deadline : You must file Form 4868 or submit your extension request by the original tax deadline (typically April 15). This grants you an automatic extension to file your tax return until October 15
- Estimate and pay any tax owed : The extension only gives you more time to file your return, not to pay any taxes due. You should estimate your tax liability and pay as much as possible by the April deadline to avoid interest and penalties. You can pay online using IRS Direct Pay and indicate that the payment is for an extension, which can serve as your extension request without filing Form 4868 separately
- If living abroad : U.S. citizens or resident aliens living outside the U.S. on the regular due date may automatically get a two-month extension without filing Form 4868
Summary
Step| Action| Notes
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1| File IRS Form 4868| Electronically or by mail before April 15
2| Estimate tax owed| Use tax software or IRS tools
3| Pay estimated tax| Pay online or by check with extension form
4| File return by October 15| Extension gives 6 extra months to file
Filing an extension is free and straightforward, but remember it does not extend the time to pay taxes owed. Paying on time avoids penalties and interest
. This process helps if you need more time to gather documents or prepare your tax return accurately without facing late-filing penalties.
