Here at FileLater, we get a lot of questions about taxes and tax extensions. So if you’re feeling a little confused, don’t worry ― you’re in good company! Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions about tax extensions that we get every year, and our answers.

What Is Tax Liability?
This is basically a fancy word for your annual income tax bill. It’s the total amount that you owe to the IRS that year. The term “tax liability” does not refer to anything that has been taken out of your paycheck throughout the year ― just what you owe overall. For example, let’s say that you made $70,000 this year and you owe $10,000 to the IRS. Also, let’s assume that you’ve paid $8,000 in taxes so far through withholding (from your wages). That means your total tax liability is $10,000 and your current tax balance is $2,000 (because $10,000 – $8,000 = $2,000).

Do I Have to File a State Tax Extension Also?
It depends on the state where you live/work. Each state has its own tax laws regarding income earned within the state (as well as income earned outside the state by residents). Some states will grant you a six-month tax extension for any reason that you need. Other states automatically approve your state tax extension when you file for a federal tax extension. Note that some states also have their own paperwork that you will be required to fill out. You can get all the information you need for state income tax extensions right here at FileLater.

Do I Need to Give the IRS a Good Reason for Getting a Tax Extension?
Absolutely not! The IRS automatically grants income tax extensions to anyone who fills out the proper form and submits on time. You can get a six-month personal tax extension and/or a five- or six-month business tax extension.

What’s the Process for Filing a Tax Extension, and How Long Does It Take?
With the FileLater system, it’s incredibly easy to get a tax extension. All you have to do is fill-in some personal information, which is kept confidential and shared with no one except the IRS. FileLater will electronically submit (e-file) your IRS form (Tax Form 4868 for individuals or Tax Form 7004 for businesses). Within a few days, you will receive notification that you’ve been approved for a tax extension, which means you now have until September (for most businesses) or October (for individuals) to file your tax return. If, for any reason, your tax extension request is rejected, FileLater will help determine why and you’ll be allowed to re-submit your extension for free.

What Does It Mean That FileLater Is an “Authorized IRS e-file Provider?”
This means that the IRS has approved FileLater’s system and authorizes us to electronically submit tax forms (such as tax extension requests) on the taxpayer’s behalf. The authorization process is strict and rigorous, so you can trust that your information is secure. You can find FileLater on the official list of Authorized IRS e-file Providers (listed as “BANKS.COM, INC.”) on the IRS website.

What Happens If My Tax Extension Gets Rejected?
Not to worry! FileLater will email you to let you know what happened and why. You will also be advised on how to fix the problem. Then you can re-submit your tax extension with FileLater at no additional charge. There is also no IRS penalty for re-submitting a tax extension.

You can get help with unresolved tax issues, order free publications and tax forms, ask tax questions, and get information from the IRS in several ways. By selecting the method that is best for you, you will be able to experience quick and easy access to tax help.

Local Taxpayer Advocates

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS. These advocates help taxpayers who are experiencing economic difficulty and are 
seeking help in resolving tax problems that have not been resolved through 
normal channels. Advocates are also available to assist taxpayers who believe 
that a particular IRS system or procedure is operating incorrectly.

Here 
are 7 things that every taxpayer should know about the IRS Taxpayer
 Advocate Service (TAS):

1. The TAS is your 
voice at the IRS.
2. The service is 
free, confidential, and tailored to meet your particular needs.
3. You may be 
eligible for TAS help if you have tried to resolve your tax problem 
through the normal IRS channels but have gotten nowhere, or if you believe that an IRS procedure just isn’t working as it should.
4. The TAS helps 
people whose tax problems are causing financial troubles or substantial 
costs (including the cost of professional representation). This applies to
 businesses as well as individuals.
5. TAS employees are 
familiar with IRS programs and procedures and they know how to navigate 
through the system. Your advocate will listen to your problem and help you
 understand what needs to be done to resolve it. Your advocate will also stay
 with you every step of the way until your issue is resolved.
6. The TAS has at 
least one local taxpayer advocate in every state, as well as Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico. You can find the phone number and address of your local
 TAS office by visiting the IRS website or by calling their toll-free line (1-877-777-4778). Another option is to complete Tax Form 911 (Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance) and fax or mail it to your local TAS office.
7. Learn about your
 rights and responsibilities as a taxpayer by visiting the TAS Tax Toolkit
 website, an independently run website that provides information for individuals, businesses, and tax professionals.

Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs)

The Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) Program serves individuals 
who have a problem with the IRS and whose income is below a certain level. It’s
important to note that LITCs are independent from the IRS. Many clinics are able to provide taxpayers with free services — or charge a small fee — for things such as representation before the IRS or in court (for tax audits, tax collection disputes, and other tax issues). If an individual’s native language is not English, some 
clinics can provide multilingual information regarding taxpayer rights and responsibilities. For information about the clinics in your area, see IRS Publication 4134 (Low Income
Taxpayer Clinic List). For general questions about the LITC Program, you can call the LITC Program Office (202-317-4700) or email [email protected].

Free Help with Preparing Your Tax Return

Free 
help in preparing your income tax return is available nationwide from IRS-trained 
volunteers. There are two major programs that offer free tax help to qualified taxpayers: 
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the
 Elderly (TCE).

VITA is designed to assist low-income taxpayers who (earn $53,000 or less and) need help preparing their own tax returns. VITA volunteers are IRS-certified and can provide basic tax return preparation with electronic filing to eligible individuals in local communities. They may also be able to help you identify certain tax credits or tax deductions that you qualify for. Find your local VITA site by calling (1-800-906-9887).

TCE offers free tax help to anyone, but gives priority to taxpayers who are aged 60 and older. TCE volunteers are especially knowledgeable about tax issues that affect seniors, including pensions and retirement. Note that many of the TCE sites are managed by AARP’s Tax Aide Program. To find your local TCE or AARP Tax-Aide site, call (888-227-7669).

Walk-In Services (Self-Help Tax Preparation)

Many VITA and TCE locations also offer self-assistance service for individuals who have simple tax returns and only need a little help, or who don’t have access to a computer. These taxpayers can visit a participating office and a certified volunteer will help guide them through the process of filing a tax return.

File a Tax Extension — It’s Easier Than You Think!

For millions of Americans, tax season is a source of stress. The pressure of gathering financial documents, double-checking deductions, and ensuring accuracy can be overwhelming, especially as the April 15 deadline looms. But what if you had more time? Fortunately, the IRS allows taxpayers to file a tax extension, granting an additional six months to complete their returns. The best part? It’s a simple process that anyone can do.

Understanding Tax Extensions

A tax extension is a formal request to the IRS for extra time to file your tax return. When approved, it extends your filing deadline from mid-April to mid-October, giving you additional time to organize your finances, track down missing documents, or consult a tax professional. However, it’s important to note that an extension grants extra time to file, not extra time to pay. If you owe taxes, you must estimate your liability and pay by the original April deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

Why File a Tax Extension?

• Many taxpayers assume that filing an extension is only for those who are disorganized or procrastinating. In reality, there are many legitimate reasons why individuals and businesses take advantage of this option:
• Missing Documents: If you’re waiting on important tax documents like K-1s, 1099s, or W-2 corrections, an extension ensures you file an accurate return.
• Complex Tax Situations: Business owners, freelancers, and investors often have more complicated returns that require additional time for calculations and deductions.
• Life Events: Major life changes like a move, divorce, illness, or a death in the family can make it difficult to meet the April deadline.
• Tax Strategy: Some taxpayers use extensions to explore tax-saving opportunities, such as retirement contributions or investment deductions.
• Professional Assistance: Accountants and tax preparers are in high demand during tax season. Filing an extension may provide the time needed to get professional help without the rush.

How to File a Tax Extension

The process of filing a tax extension is straightforward and can be done in just a few minutes. Here’s how:

1. Choose Your Filing Method

The IRS offers multiple ways to request an extension:

Electronically: Use tax software, an IRS Free File provider like FileLater, or a tax professional to e-file Form 4868, the Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File. To file a personal e-file Form 4868. For business extensions, you will need to e-file Form 7004

By Mail: Download Form 4868 from the IRS website, fill it out, and mail it to the appropriate IRS address.

2. Estimate Your Tax Liability

Even though an extension grants more time to file, any taxes owed are still due by the original deadline. If you fail to pay at least 90% of your estimated tax bill, you may incur late payment penalties and interest. Use last year’s return and current income records to estimate your liability.

3. Make a Payment If Necessary

If you owe taxes, you can make a payment when filing your extension. The IRS provides several payment methods, including Direct Pay, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), and credit or debit card options. Paying at least part of your estimated tax bill can reduce potential penalties.

4. Keep Records of Your Extension

After filing, retain proof of submission, whether it’s an electronic confirmation or a mailed receipt. This documentation is crucial if any issues arise with your extension request.

What Happens After You File an Extension?

1. Once your extension is granted, your new filing deadline is October 15. During this extra time, you can:
2. Gather and review all necessary tax documents.
3. Seek advice from a tax professional.
4. Double-check for deductions and credits that may lower your tax bill.
5. File an accurate and complete return, minimizing the risk of IRS audits or amendments.
6. Common Myths About Tax Extensions
7. Despite being a widely used tool, tax extensions are often misunderstood. Here are some common myths debunked:

Myth #1: Filing an Extension Increases Your Risk of an Audit

Many taxpayers fear that filing an extension will put them on the IRS’s radar for an audit. In reality, the IRS does not penalize taxpayers simply for requesting more time. In fact, filing an accurate return late is often better than rushing and making errors.

Myth #2: Extensions Mean No Late Fees or Interest

An extension only extends the time to file, not the time to pay. Any unpaid taxes after the original deadline will accrue interest and possibly penalties. This is why estimating and paying your tax liability on time is crucial.

Myth #3: You Need a Special Reason to File an Extension

The IRS does not require you to provide a reason for requesting an extension. It is granted automatically as long as you file Form 4868 correctly and on time.

Myth #4: Filing an Extension Looks Bad

Some believe that needing an extension suggests financial irresponsibility or disorganization. In reality, extensions are a routine part of tax planning for individuals and businesses alike.

Who Should Not File an Extension?

While extensions can be beneficial, they are not for everyone. Here are situations where it may not be the best option:

• If you are expecting a refund, delaying your return means delaying your refund.
• If you cannot afford to pay your estimated taxes, an extension won’t eliminate late payment penalties.
• If you need your tax return for financial transactions, such as applying for a mortgage or student aid, filing later could cause delays.

Final Thoughts

Filing a tax extension is a simple and strategic way to give yourself extra time to ensure accuracy and maximize deductions. Whether you’re facing a complex tax situation, waiting on documents, or simply need more time to work with a tax professional, an extension can help you avoid costly mistakes. Just remember that while you get more time to file, you still need to pay any owed taxes by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. With a well-planned approach, you can use an extension to your advantage, file with confidence, and stay in good standing with the IRS. So, if you’re feeling rushed this tax season, take a deep breath, file an extension, and give yourself the time you need to get it right.

There are a few different methods approved by the IRS for filing your income tax returns and tax extension forms.

Here are some reasons why you should consider using FileLater.com for your tax extension:

It’s Easy
All you have to do to request a tax extension is answer a few simple questions, and the FileLater system will do the rest. FileLater will automatically fill-out your IRS Tax Form 4868 (personal taxes) or IRS Tax Form 7004 (business taxes) and send it to the IRS electronically. You will be notified as soon as your tax extension has been approved. You can even pay any tax that you owe online using FileLater’s electronic payment (e-payment) option, which sends your payment directly to the IRS.

FileLater Is Based in the United States
Unlike some tax e-filing websites, FileLater is based in the United States. FileLater is owned and operated by U.S. tax-paying residents.

FileLater Will Submit Your Personal AND Business Tax Extensions
FileLater is the only company that handles both types of tax extension requests. Depending on your particular situation, you can obtain a five- or six-month extension for your personal or business income taxes ― and it only takes a few minutes.

FileLater Is Reliable and Secure
FileLater’s online application was designed by professional tax experts to ensure accuracy and ease of use. FileLater also has the best acceptance rate in the industry for online tax extensions ― better than 98%! FileLater uses the latest in electronic security technology to make sure that your personal information remains safe and confidential. With FileLater, you know that your income tax extension is in good hands.

FileLater Provides Federal AND State Tax Extension Information at Your Fingertips
FileLater offers comprehensive tax extension information for all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as Federal tax extension applications. Find out everything you need to know about tax extensions and then file your request online, all right here.

FileLater Is There for You Every Step of the Way
FileLater has a dedicated support team― the best in the tax extension industry. FileLater is committed to ensuring that your information is accurate and your tax extension is filed properly and successfully. FileLater will answer any questions that you have, help you manage any issues that arise, and go the extra mile to make sure you are happy with the FileLater service.

One of the most commonly asked questions asked of our Support Team during tax extension season is if there are any options to pay the IRS in installments. The answer is: YES.

How an Installment Agreement Works

If you cannot pay the full amount due with your income tax return,
 you can ask the IRS if they will allow you to make monthly installment
 payments for the full amount or a partial amount of the tax owed. Also known as an IRS Payment Plan, this arrangement allows you to pay-off your tax liability over a period of time (sometimes up to five years). Note that the type of arrangement you get will depend on what kind of tax debt you have and how much you owe. If you receive a notice from the IRS, you should respond first by following the instructions included with the notice. Usually the IRS will ask you to contact them by phone or mail. After that, you will receive further instructions and have the chance to request an installment agreement.

To ask for an installment agreement, use Tax Form 9465,
 known as the Installment Agreement Request. You should receive a response from the IRS within 30 days. You can also apply for an installment agreement online.
 To do that, go to the IRS website and click on the “Payments” tab at the top. You will see a section titled “Can’t Pay Now?”

There are fees associated with setting up an installment agreement, ranging from $43 to $120 depending on your request and situation. Keep in mind
 that you will also be charged interest and possibly a late payment penalty on
 the tax not paid by the date your return is due, even if your request to set up an installment agreement is granted. To limit the interest and penalty charges, you
 will want to file your tax return (or tax extension) on time and pay as much of the tax as
 possible by the original due date. At FileLater.com, you can make a payment online with your tax extension. All tax payments received by the IRS will be applied to
 your account.

By approving your payment plan request, the IRS agrees to let you pay the tax you owe in 
monthly installments (instead of immediately paying the amount in full). In
 return, you are agreeing to make your monthly payments on time. You are also agreeing to meet all your future tax 
liabilities.

Your request for an installment agreement
 will be denied if all the required tax returns have not been filed. Any tax refund
 owed to you in a future year will be applied against the amount you currently owe — if your tax 
refund is applied to your balance, you are still expected to make your regular
 monthly installment payments.

What Is an Offer in Compromise?

An “Offer in Compromise” is basically an agreement between the IRS and a taxpayer that allows the taxpayer to pay less than the full amount they owe.  The taxpayer can usually choose to make a lump sum tax payment or set up an installment plan. While this type of arrangement isn’t for everyone, the Offer in Compromise program has allowed many taxpayers to pay off their tax debts.

The IRS will accept an Offer in Compromise under a few conditions. You may be approved if the IRS comes to the conclusion that the full amount owed is otherwise uncollectable. The IRS may also permit an Offer in Compromise if you have legitimate doubt that you actually owe that amount of tax debt — called “doubt as to liability.” Lastly, in certain situations the IRS will accept a lower amount than what’s owed if full payment would cause undue hardship to the taxpayer or their family.

Installment Payment Methods

There are several methods by which you can make your installment payments, including check, money order, direct debit, or credit
 card. After the IRS receives each payment,
they will send you a notice with your remaining balance, plus the 
due date and amount of your next installment payment. Note that if you choose to have your
 payments automatically withdrawn from your bank account, you will not receive these notices in the mail — rather, your bank statement will serve as your record of payment.

If you do not make your payments on time, or you fail to pay the 
balance due on a return you file later, you will be considered “in default” on
 your installment agreement and the IRS may take action against you. This can include filing of a “Notice of Federal Tax Lien” or an IRS levy action to collect the 
entire amount you owe. To ensure that your payments are made in a timely manner,
 consider making them automatic via Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW).

Before you complete your tax extension request, remember this important fact: a tax extension gives you more time to file your income tax return, but it does not give you more time to pay any tax that you owe to the IRS.

So, if on April 15th (or March 15th for businesses) you owe the IRS money, you are expected to pay that full amount or else you may be subject to interest, penalties, and late fees.

There are a few ways to make a payment with your tax extension using the FileLater system. Here is an explanation of the main payment options:

Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW) Payment

If you e-file taxes online using your personal computer — through a tax extension professional like FileLater, for example — you can make a tax payment by authorizing an Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW) directly from your bank account. Make sure to check with your banking institution to confirm that an Electronic Funds Withdrawal is allowed, and remember to obtain the correct routing and account numbers.

If you owe income tax to the IRS and you want to have the money electronically withdrawn from your bank account, you will be asked to agree to the following declaration:

“I authorize the U.S. Treasury and its designated Financial Agent to
 initiate an ACH electronic funds withdrawal entry to the financial institution
 account indicated for payment of my federal taxes and the financial institution 
to debit the entry to this account. To revoke a payment, I must contact the 
U.S. Treasury Financial Agent at 1-888-353-4537 no later than 2 business days
 prior to the payment (settlement) date. I also authorize the financial 
institutions involved in the processing of the electronic payment of taxes to
 receive confidential information necessary to answer inquiries and resolve 
issues related to the payment.”

The EFW payment option allows taxpayers to e-file a tax extension request online (Form 4868 or Form 7004) and 
simultaneously “e-pay” the tax that they owe. Remember that e-filing your tax extension means you don’t need to send in a paper application. You will receive a written copy
 of the EFW payment authorization once you complete the transaction. It is 
important to keep this copy for your records.

NOTE: For the most part, business entities are required to remit their Federal taxes electronically. See the specific form instructions for rules on how your business tax payments should be made.

Tax Payment by Check or Money Order

When paying by check or money order, mail your payment with the applicable tax form or voucher to the address listed in the Instructions. For example, if you e-file Form 4868 but you’d rather mail your tax payment to the IRS, you should use a completed Form 4868 as a payment voucher and mail it to the appropriate address (listed on Page 4 of Form 4868).

Make your check or money order payable to the “United States
Treasury” and DO NOT SEND CASH. Also 
don’t forget to write your Social Security Number (SSN), daytime phone number, and “[Tax Year] Form 4868” (i.e. the words “2014 Form 4868”) on your check or money order. Do not staple or 
attach your payment to Tax Form 4868.

Are you ready to electronically submit your personal tax extension (IRS Tax Form 4868) online using the FileLater system, which will extend your filing deadline for six months for your annual Federal income tax return (Form 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, 1040NR, 1040NR-EZ, 1040-PR, or 1040-SS)?

Congratulations! You will give yourself until October 15 to file your income taxes. This article explains the steps you will need to take to file a tax extension online with the IRS-approved FileLater system.

Step 1

The IRS requires that you provide some personal information in order to request a tax extension online. This includes your name, address, Social Security Number (or ITIN) ― and the same information for your spouse if you are married filing jointly. Other complicated tax forms (including W-2s, 1099s, and prior year returns) are not required to get a tax extension. Additionally, you can be confident that all of your data is kept secure by FileLater and shared only with the IRS.

Step 2

In order to get a tax extension, you must estimate whether you expect to owe taxes or get a tax refund. Don’t worry, this isn’t as complicated as it may sound. You can use FileLater’s helpful tax calculator to estimate your situation. Note that many of our customers simply assume a similar tax situation to the previous year. If you expect to owe any tax, you will want to make a payment to avoid potential interest and late payment penalties assessed by the IRS. FileLater can also help you make a tax payment directly to the IRS via Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW) directly from your bank account.

Step 3

Once you submit your tax extension using FileLater, the system will electronically file (e-file) Tax Form 4868 to the IRS for approval. Note that FileLater is an Authorized IRS e-file Provider, which means that your transaction and your information are completely secure.

That’s All It Takes

A few days after you submit your tax extension request, FileLater will send you a confirmation email notifying that your tax extension (Form 4868) has been approved by the IRS. If, for any reason, your tax extension request is denied, FileLater will tell you why ― and you can resubmit for free after making the necessary changes. Keep in mind, nearly all rejections are caused by mistakes (misspellings or Social Security Numbers that don’t match IRS records). As long as you submit your information accurately and on-time, your tax extension will likely be approved ― which is why the IRS calls it an “automatic extension.”

If you have any questions, the FileLater support team is standing by to help you.

Start your personal tax extension now!

Navigate Your Tax Extensions with Form 4868: A Complete Guide

Tax season can be daunting, especially when unexpected events hinder timely filing. Fortunately, the IRS offers tax extensions, allowing taxpayers additional time to prepare and submit their returns. This guide explores the essentials of filing a tax extension using Form 4868, ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.

Key Takeaways

• Automatic Six-Month Extension: Submitting Form 4868 grants an automatic six-month extension to file your federal income tax return.
• Extension to File, Not to Pay: Any owed taxes must still be paid by the original deadline to avoid penalties.
• Multiple Submission Methods: File electronically or via mail, with electronic filing offering faster confirmation.

Understanding Form 4868

Form 4868, “Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return,” grants taxpayers an automatic six-month extension, shifting the April 15 deadline to October 15.

Important Consideration: This extension applies only to filing, not to tax payments, which remain due by April 15.

Who Should Consider Filing an Extension?

• Incomplete Documentation: Awaiting essential tax documents, such as Schedule K-1s or Form 1099s.
• Complex Financial Situations: Business transactions or investments requiring additional reporting time.
• Unexpected Life Events: Health issues or personal emergencies impeding timely filing.

How to File Form 4868

1. Electronic Filing (E-File): Use IRS Free File or authorized e-file providers for fast and convenient submission.
2. Payment with Extension: Paying taxes through IRS Direct Pay or EFTPS automatically requests an extension.
3. Paper Filing: Mail a completed Form 4868 postmarked by the deadline. Mailing addresses vary by location.

For more details, visit FileLater.

Special Considerations for Taxpayers Abroad

U.S. citizens abroad automatically receive a two-month extension to June 15. Filing Form 4868 extends the deadline to October 15, but interest accrues from April 15.

Consequences of Late Filing and Payment

Failure to file by April 15 may result in a 5% monthly penalty (up to 25%). Failure to pay results in a 0.5% monthly penalty.

Practical Steps to Ensure Compliance

• Estimate Your Tax Liability: A reasonable estimate is required on Form 4868.
• Maintain Documentation: Keep records of tax documents and proof of extension filing.
• Stay Informed: Visit the IRS website or consult a tax professional for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does filing Form 4868 extend the time to pay taxes?

A: No, it only extends the filing deadline. Taxes are still due by April 15.

Q: Can I file Form 4868 electronically?

A: Yes, through IRS Free File or authorized tax software providers.

Q: What happens if I miss the deadline?

A: You may face penalties, including a 5% failure-to-file penalty and interest on unpaid taxes.

Now that you’ve gotten extra months to file your taxes by doing an online tax extension with FileLater you might be curious what happens next. With the extra time our team has addressed some of the most common tax extension questions.

How do I know the IRS received my tax extension and that it was approved?

If you filed your tax extension online with FileLater you can expect to receive a confirmation email from FileLater within 24 hours of filing the extension. Know that you can also always review the status of your extension by logging into your FileLater account.

Know that FileLater will let you know when your tax extension has been submitted and accepted. In some cases the IRS will reject a tax extension if some of the information is not correct. FileLater will also notify you if this happens and help you make the changes to your tax extension for resubmittal.

It’s also important to know that extensions only extend the amount of time you have to file your taxes. They do not push back the deadline required to pay any taxes owed. If you think you will owe taxes you are still required to send an estimated payment to the IRS by the regular tax deadline along with an extension. You’ll want to do this to avoid paying any penalties or interest later.

What can I do if I filed an extension but didn’t send an estimated payment?

If you were not ready to file your taxes and went with an extension it is important to know you are required to send your estimated tax payment to the IRS as soon as possible. Failing to do so could lead to paying penalties and interest. To get help estimating your taxes, use IRS.com.

Can I e-file my tax return to the IRS after the filing date in April?

Yes. You can complete and efile your tax return, often for FREE depending on your tax situation at 1040.com.

How to E-File a Tax Extension

If you are due a tax refund, the filing process is much less stressful because you don’t have to request extra time. On the other hand, if you owe additional money you will need to file a tax extension while also arranging to make a payment.

Obtain a copy of IRS Tax Form 4868 (Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return). This one-page form will help you get a six month automatic extension to file your taxes. You can call the IRS to request this form or print it out online. If you are working with a tax professional, they can supply you with a tax extension form as well as any others that you may need.

Fill out Tax Form 4868 (Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return) and submit it to the IRS by the due date, which is April 15. Note that Form 4868 can be filed electronically or by paper mail.

It would be in your best interest to pay in full, but sometimes this is not possible. Again, you are not buying yourself more time to pay your taxes when you file for a tax extension. The longer you wait to pay, the more you will owe in late fees.

While filling out Tax Form 4868 you will need to provide personal information such as your Social Security number, address, and an estimate of the amount of tax that you owe. Since you are not filing a complete return, you can estimate your tax liability and then pay that amount.

If you are due a tax refund you do not need to file a tax extension. There is no penalty for filing late unless you owe the IRS additional money. To determine if you owe money or are due a tax refund, you will have to fill out some portions of your income tax return (i.e. Form 1040).

The IRS does not require taxpayers to explain or give reasons for their tax extension request. That being said, additional extensions are rare, though special rules may apply for taxpayers living outside the country or serving active military duty.