How Do I Request an Extension to File My Taxes with the IRS?

If you will not make the deadline of April 15th to file your taxes, you must submit Form 4868 to get an extension by that time. Once approved, you will have until October 15th to file your taxes. Filing late can cost you anywhere from 5% to as much as 25% of your balance due for each month, so be sure to file on time or get an extension.

If you need to request an extension to file your taxes with the IRS, this article can help. It contains a lot of important information about filing taxes late, including how to file late, the penalties for filing late, and more.

How to Get An Extension For Filing Your Tax Return

If you need more time to file your tax return, you can apply for an extension before the date your return is due. However, keep in mind that an extension on the time you have to file does not give you more time to pay what you owe. The amount you owe in taxes should be paid by the deadline to avoid paying possible penalties. If you require more help, click here to speak to a customer support specialist at the IRS.

E-file A Free Extension Form

Regardless of income, individual tax filers can automatically request a tax-filing extension until October 15, by filling out and submitting Form 4868 "Application For Automatic Extension Of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax return". You must submit an estimate of your tax liability when filling out this form to get an extension. You also must pay any amount of taxes you currently owe.

Forms for Extensions by Filing Status

Individuals can fill out and submit form 4868, but special rules may apply for those who do not live in the United States, those serving in a hazardous duty area, or those who serve in a combat zone. If you are applying for an extension on behalf of a business or Corporation, you may need to fill out Form 1138 to extend the payment time for tax payments for a Corporation that expects "Net Operating loss carryback" or Form 7004, which is for certain business extensions.

What Is The Deadline For Filing Taxes Each Year?

Except for 2020, when President Trump delayed the filing deadline to July 15th, 2020, due to the pandemic, the deadline to file your taxes is April 15th each year. If you cannot e-File your tax return by this time, you must e-File an extension by filling out Form 4868 online. Once this form has been completed and submitted, you will have until October 15th to file. If you don't owe any taxes, are expecting a refund, or the IRS accepted your extension, you will not have to pay any penalties for late filing.

What If You Miss the Tax Filing Deadline?

The penalty for failing to file your tax return by the deadline starts at 5% for every month you do not file and can increase to a 25% penalty of the balance due. Besides late-filing interest, you may also have to pay penalty charges. However, if you are supposed to get a refund, you will not have to pay for filing late. If you would like to speak to a customer support specialist at the IRS, click here.

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