Where Do I File an Extension for My Taxes?

A tax extension provides additional time to submit your completed tax return. It is a common tool for individuals who need more time to gather documents or complete their paperwork. Requesting an extension moves the filing deadline from April 15 to October 15 for most calendar-year filers.

A common misunderstanding is that an extension to file also extends the deadline to pay taxes owed. The deadline for tax payment remains the same, and any amount due must be paid by the original April 15 deadline to avoid potential penalties and interest. An extension only postpones the due date for the paperwork, not the tax liability.

Information and Forms Needed to File an Extension

Before requesting more time to file, you must gather specific information. The primary document is IRS Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. This form is used to secure a six-month extension for filing returns like Form 1040, pushing your deadline to October 15.

To complete Form 4868, you will need to provide your full name, address, and Social Security number. If filing a joint return, your spouse’s information is also required. The form requires an estimate of your total tax liability for the year, which must be a reasonable approximation based on the information you have.

To formulate this estimate, you should collect all available income documents, such as W-2s and 1099s, and records of deductions or credits you plan to take. Referencing your prior year’s tax return can be a helpful guide. After estimating your total tax liability, subtract any federal income tax withheld and any estimated tax payments made to determine the balance due.

How to File Your Federal Tax Extension

Filing Electronically

One of the most direct methods for submitting an extension is through electronic filing. The IRS offers Free File on its website, which allows any taxpayer to electronically file Form 4868 at no cost and provides an electronic acknowledgment once accepted.

Alternatively, you can use commercial tax preparation software or enlist a tax professional. Most tax software includes a feature to prepare and e-file Form 4868, and a tax preparer can submit the extension on your behalf.

Filing by Paying

A convenient option is to file an extension by making a tax payment. When using an IRS electronic payment system, such as IRS Direct Pay or the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), you can indicate the payment is for an extension. This automatically grants an extension to file without submitting a separate Form 4868.

IRS Direct Pay allows you to make a payment from a checking or savings account without fees; select “Extension” as the reason. EFTPS offers a secure way to pay taxes online or by phone but requires enrollment beforehand. You can also pay with a debit card, credit card, or digital wallet, though payment processors may charge a fee.

Filing by Mail

You can also file an extension by mailing a completed Form 4868. The form must be mailed to the correct IRS processing center, and the address depends on your state and whether you are including a payment. The IRS provides a list of mailing addresses in the form’s instructions.

If sending a payment, make the check or money order payable to the “United States Treasury.” Include your Social Security number, the tax year, and a note that says “Form 4868” on the payment. The envelope must be postmarked by the original tax filing deadline of April 15.

Filing a State Tax Extension

A federal tax extension does not automatically extend the deadline for your state taxes. Each state has its own rules and procedures for granting extensions, and these requirements can vary significantly. You must ensure you are compliant with your state’s specific filing deadlines.

Some states offer an automatic extension to anyone granted a federal extension, requiring no separate state form, though you may need to attach a copy of your federal Form 4868 to your state return. Other states mandate that you file a state-specific extension form, which is independent of the federal process.

To understand the correct procedure, you must consult your state’s department of revenue or taxation. Their official website is the most reliable source for finding the necessary forms, instructions, and deadlines. Verifying the rules for every state where you have a filing obligation is a necessary step.