Last-Minute Tax Filing and Extension Guide

Tax day has a way of sneaking up on everyone. Whether you still haven’t started, or just need more time, you have more options than you think, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.

Don’t let tax season overwhelm you. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know about tax deadlines and extensions, so you can stop stressing and start taking action.

A note about mailing your tax return

If you plan to mail your tax return or payment, you should know that a recent processing clarification by the U.S. Postal Service could affect whether the IRS considers your tax return or payment on time, even if you mailed it before the deadline. The IRS uses the postmark date on your envelope and not the date you drop it in the mail to determine if you filed on time (known as the “mailbox rule”). With USPS processing changes, the postmark stamped on your envelope may reflect the date processed at the sorting facility which could be later.

To protect yourself, consider requesting a hand-stamped postmark directly at a post office retail counter when you mail anything tax-related. The safest approach is to send payments and tax returns electronically. If you have to use mail, send your payment or tax return well ahead of any deadline. You can also request a certified return with a signature so you have proof that the IRS received your payment or tax return.

Ready to file? Go from zero to done, fast

The hardest part of filing your taxes is usually just starting. Whether you’ve been putting it off, you’re filing for the first time, or you just want to make sure you’re doing this right, you’re in the right place.

These three articles walk you through everything you need before you sit down, answer the questions most filers ask first, and help you move from overwhelmed to done as quickly as possible.

“De-Stress Tax Time: The 6 Top Filing Tips Everyone Should Know”

Anxiety about taxes is real, and it stops a lot of people from filing on time. This article (with video) cuts through the stress with six practical tips that apply to almost every filer, regardless of your income or how complicated your situation is.

First: De-stress

“Tax Documents Checklist: How to Win Big This Tax Season”

Select the life events that applied to you and we will create a tax document checklist made especially for your unique situation. You can come to TurboTax and fully hand over your documents over to a TurboTax Live tax expert and get your taxes done from start to finish.

Use the tax documents checklist

“Can You File Taxes on Your Phone?”

Yes! Mobile tax filing has become increasingly popular. Mobile tax filing offers convenience, speed, and security, making it easier to prepare and submit your return from anywhere.

Read the mobile tax filing tips

Learn about tax deadlines

Not ready to file by April 15? That’s okay, filing an extension is quick, free, and gives you until October to submit your return. And if you’ve already filed and realized something isn’t right, the IRS has a straightforward process for fixing it. Either way, taking action now is always better than waiting. Here’s what you need to know.

“What Day Are Taxes Due? File by the April 15 Deadline or Get an Extension”

Not sure when your taxes are actually due? This article covers the federal tax deadline, what to do if you can’t file or pay on time, and how to handle everything online. So you have a clear picture of exactly where you stand and what your next move should be.

Learn about the tax filing deadline

“What Happens if You File Your Taxes Wrong“

Worried about the fallout from filing late or making a mistake? This breakdown explains how the IRS calculates failure-to-file penalties, failure-to-pay penalties, and interest charges, and importantly, how to minimize the damage if you’re already behind.

Learn how to minimize the damage

“How To File a Fax Extension Online with TurboTax”

An extension gives you six extra months to file your return, but it doesn’t give you extra time to pay what you owe. This guide walks you through exactly how to request more time from the IRS, what the extension actually covers, and what you still need to do by April 15.

Learn about filing an extension

“IRS Form 4868: A Step-by-Step Guide To Filing an IRS Tax Extension“

Form 4868 is the official form you file to request a federal tax extension. If you’ve never done it before, this article makes it straightforward, walking you through each field, the filing deadline for the form itself, and how TurboTax can help you file it in minutes.

Get the guide for filing an extension

We’ve got you

If you need more time, an extension is there for you. If something went wrong, it can be fixed. And if you’re just getting started, the hardest part is already behind you.

Taxes don’t have to be overwhelming, and no matter where you are in the process, there’s always a clear next step. TurboTax is here to help you get it done with confidence, whatever that looks like for you.