How to File a Tax Extension: Everything You Need to Know

What a Tax Extension Does (and Does Not Do)

A tax extension gives you an additional 6 months to file your return (until October 15). It does NOT extend the time to pay. Any tax owed is still due by April 15.

How to File Form 4868

You can request an extension by:

E-filing Form 4868 through tax software or IRS Free File

Making an electronic tax payment and indicating it is for an extension

Mailing a paper Form 4868

No reason or justification is required. Extensions are automatic.

Payment Obligation

Estimate your tax liability and pay as much as you can by April 15. Interest and penalties accrue on unpaid balances from April 15, even with an extension.

The failure-to-pay penalty is 0.5% per month (reduced to 0.25% if on extension). The failure-to-file penalty is 5% per month. Filing an extension eliminates the much larger failure-to-file penalty.

State Extensions

Most states follow the federal extension automatically, but some require a separate state extension form. Check your state's requirements.

When Extensions Make Sense

You are missing important documents

You had a major life event and need time to sort finances

You need to decide between certain tax elections

You are waiting for K-1 forms from partnerships

You simply need more time to organize

Taxation.ai can file your extension electronically and estimate your payment obligation to minimize penalties and interest.