To request an extension on filing your U.S. federal income tax return, you need to file IRS Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. This form gives you an automatic extension until October 15 to file your tax return, but it does not extend the time to pay any taxes owed
. Here are the main ways to request a tax filing extension:
- File Form 4868 electronically using IRS Free File or through an IRS e-filing partner or tax professional. This is the quickest and easiest way
- Make an electronic payment of any estimated taxes owed by the original filing deadline (typically April 15) using Direct Pay, debit/credit card, or digital wallet, and indicate that the payment is for an extension. This automatically grants you an extension without separately filing Form 4868
- Mail a completed Form 4868 to the IRS by the tax filing deadline. Include an estimate of your tax liability and any payment if you owe taxes
Important points to remember:
- The extension only gives you more time to file your tax return, not to pay your tax bill. You must pay any taxes owed by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest
- You do not need to provide a reason for requesting the extension
- If you live outside the U.S. on the regular due date, you may automatically get a two-month extension without filing Form 4868
- The deadline to request an extension is the same as the tax filing deadline, usually April 15 (or the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday)
In summary, to request an extension on your taxes:
- Estimate your tax liability.
- File IRS Form 4868 electronically or by mail by the tax deadline.
- Pay any taxes owed by the tax deadline.
- File your completed tax return by October 15.
This process ensures you avoid late-filing penalties while giving you extra time to prepare your return
