Life doesn’t always cooperate when tax season rolls around. Missing tax documents, unexpected emergencies, or just a complicated tax situation can make it challenging or even impossible to meet the tax filing deadline sometimes. But don’t worry — that’s where filing a tax extension using IRS Form 4868 comes in.
Below, we answer some of the most common questions taxpayers have about tax extensions, including what they do, how long they last, and whether you really need one. Let’s break it all down.
1. What does filing a tax extension do?
Filing a tax extension gives you six additional months to file your federal tax return. For most calendar-year filers, that moves the tax filing deadline from April 15 to Oct. 15.
While filing a tax extension gives you additional time to file your federal tax return, it does not give you additional time to pay your tax bill. Your tax payment is still due by the original tax deadline, even if you don’t file your individual income tax return until later.
Note: If April 15 or Oct. 15 falls on a weekend or holiday, the IRS automatically pushes the deadline to the next business day.
2. How many tax extensions can you file?
For your federal tax return, you can only file one IRS tax extension per tax year. Form 4868 provides an automatic extension of time to file, but you only get that extra six months to file. You can’t keep extending your tax filing due date beyond that.
That said, some taxpayers may qualify for additional extended time beyond the normal extension deadline due to natural disasters, federally declared emergencies, or other IRS-approved relief situations. When this happens, the IRS may automatically extend the filing deadline and tax payment due date for affected individuals and businesses.
3. Can you file for a second tax extension?
No, you can’t file a second tax extension for the same tax year. The IRS allows only one extension request per tax return, which you can request by filing Form 4868.
However, it’s perfectly fine to file a tax extension multiple years in a row if you need one. Many taxpayers request an extension every year, especially if they’re self-employed, dealing with business tax considerations, or anticipating the late arrival of certain tax documents. You also don’t need a special reason to file a tax extension.
4. Should I file an extension on my taxes?
Filing an extension can be a smart tax planning move if you’re missing tax documents, dealing with a complex tax situation, or simply need more time to ensure your return is accurate. It can also help you avoid late filing penalties while you finalize your income tax return.
But you should not file an extension if your main concern is needing more time to pay your tax bill. A tax extension only extends the filing deadline, not the tax payment due date. When you file an extension without paying your tax liability, interest and penalties may apply to any unpaid taxes.
Instead, if you can’t pay your full tax liability by the due date, an IRS payment plan can help break up your balance due into more manageable chunks.
Wondering whether a tax extension is right for you this year? Here are some good reasons to file a tax extension.
5. Do I need to file a tax extension if I’m getting a refund?
Technically, no. If you’re expecting a tax refund, there’s no penalty for late filing. However, filing your tax return sooner means getting your refund faster (not to mention, you avoid the risk of forgetting details or misplacing important tax information).
Tax Tip: The IRS generally gives filers three years from the date you filed your federal return OR two years from the date you paid the tax to claim a refund (whichever is later). After that, you won’t be able to claim your refund. Learn more.
6. How long is an IRS tax extension good for?
A standard IRS extension gives you six extra months to file your federal tax return. For calendar-year filers, that usually moves the filing deadline from April 15 to Oct. 15 (or the next business day, if the 15th falls on a weekend/holiday).
7. How do I file for a tax extension?
You can file Form 4868 electronically or by mail. If you use TaxAct®, you can e-file Form 4868 directly during the tax filing process to request a tax extension. We can also help you submit any estimated tax payment at the same time, if needed.
You don’t need to be a tax professional or CPA to request a filing extension — our tax preparation software will walk you through the process step by step. Got more questions? Check out How to File a Tax Extension for more detailed info and assistance.
8. Can I file a tax extension online?
Yes. You can file a tax extension online by e-filing Form 4868 (you can also do this through TaxAct!). This is often the easiest and quickest option during tax season, with the added bonus of an electronic confirmation that the IRS received your extension request.
9. When are my taxes due if I filed an extension?
When you receive a tax extension, you still need to pay any balance due (a.k.a. your tax bill or tax liability) by the original April 15 due date to avoid interest and penalties. However, you get an extra six months to file your income tax return (usually Oct. 15) without incurring late filing penalties.
So, your tax return due date is pushed to October, but your tax payment due date is always April 15.
10. What happens when you file a tax extension?
Now, let’s summarize all the above. When you file a tax extension:
The IRS automatically grants you extra time to file your return, as long as you submit Form 4868 by the original tax deadline.
You can only file one extension per return.
Your tax payment deadline stays the same.
Interest may apply to unpaid taxes if you don’t pay enough of your tax bill by the original April deadline.
You reduce the risk of late filing penalties.
If you’re expecting a refund, it will be delayed until you file your return.
The bottom line
A tax filing extension can provide extra filing time if you need some breathing room to complete your return, but it doesn’t extend your time to pay your tax bill. Whether you’re filing a simple income tax return or need more time to get your small business tax forms in order, filing Form 4868 can help you stay compliant with IRS tax law while avoiding the unnecessary pressure and stress of looming tax deadlines.
And when you’re ready, TaxAct can help you e-file your extension, estimate your tax payment (if needed), and help you file your federal and state tax returns with confidence.
This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice.
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