IRS: File Tax Extension

File Tax Extension: Need more time to prepare your federal tax return? This page provides information on how to apply for an extension of time to file. Please be aware that:

An extension of time to file your return does not grant you any extension of time to pay your taxes.
You should estimate and pay any owed taxes by your regular deadline to help avoid possible penalties.
You must file your extension request no later than the regular due date of your return.
Taxpayers in certain disaster areas do not need to submit an extension electronically or on paper. Check to see if you qualify and the due date of your return.

E-file Your Extension Form for Free

Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can use IRS Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension.

Filing this form gives you until October 15 to file a return.
- If October 15 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the due date is delayed until the next business day. Your return is considered filed on time if the envelope is properly addressed, postmarked, and deposited in the mail by the due date.
To get the extension, you must estimate your tax liability on this form and should also pay any amount due.

Get an extension when you make a payment

You can also get an extension by electronically paying all or part of your estimated income tax due and indicating the payment is for an extension. You can make a same-day payment using online account services. Payment can be scheduled with Direct Pay using the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) or with a credit or debit card. If the indicator is selected when making your payment, you won’t have to file a separate extension form and you’ll receive a confirmation number for your records.

Extension Forms by Filing Status

Individuals

Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return
Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can use IRS Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension

Special rules may apply if you are:

Serving in a combat zone or a qualified hazardous duty area
Living outside the United States
Qualify for tax relief in disaster situations

Business and Corporations

Other Forms

Federal tax return extensions

If you need more time to file your tax return, you may qualify for a six-month extension. But you still must estimate and pay your taxes on time to avoid a penalty.

While you will get more time to file your return, an extension does not grant you more time to pay your taxes. To avoid possible penalties, you should estimate and pay your federal taxes by the due date.

You can request an extension:

Online using IRS’ Free File program
When you pay your estimated tax bill
Using IRS Form 4868

Can I still file an extension on my taxes?

Yes, you can still file an extension on your taxes for the 2022 tax year. The deadline to file an extension is October 16, 2023. An extension will give you until October 16, 2023, to file your tax return, but you will still owe any taxes that you owe by the original deadline of April 18, 2023.

Can I file a tax extension after April 18th?

No, you cannot file a tax extension after April 18th. The deadline to file an extension is April 18th. If you miss the deadline, you may be subject to penalties and interest.

Can I file Form 4868 after April 15?

Yes, you can file Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, after April 15th. The deadline to file an extension is October 16th of the same year. However, you must still pay any estimated taxes owed by April 15th.

There are two ways to file Form 4868:

Electronically: You can file Form 4868 electronically using the IRS Free File program or commercial tax preparation software. E-filing is the fastest and most accurate way to file your extension request.
Mail: You can mail Form 4868 to the IRS address listed on the form. Be sure to mail your form at least two weeks before the April 15th deadline to ensure that it is received on time.

If you have any questions about filing Form 4868, you can contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.

How do I file a tax extension online for free?

To file a tax extension online for free, you can use the IRS Free File program. Free File is a partnership between the IRS and tax preparation software companies that allows taxpayers to file their federal income tax returns electronically for free.

To file a tax extension using Free File, follow these steps:

Go to the IRS Free File website.
Click the “Start Now” button under the “File an Extension” section.
Select a tax preparation software company from the list.
Create an account with the selected tax preparation software company.
Follow the instructions on the tax preparation software company’s website to file your tax extension.

When filing your tax extension, you will need to provide the following information:

Your name and Social Security number
Your spouse’s name and Social Security number (if married filing jointly)
Your estimated tax liability for the year
The reason for your extension request

Once you have filed your tax extension, you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this number for your records.

Here are some additional tips for filing a tax extension online for free:

File your extension as early as possible. This will give you more time to gather your tax documents and complete your tax return.
Be sure to pay any estimated taxes owed by the original deadline of April 18th.
If you have any questions about filing a tax extension, you can contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.

What happens if you file taxes late without an extension?

If you file your taxes late without an extension, you may be subject to penalties and interest. The penalty for failing to file on time is 5% of the unpaid tax for each month or part of a month that your return is late, up to a maximum of 25%. The interest rate on unpaid taxes is variable, but it is currently 7% per year.

In addition to the penalties and interest, if you owe taxes and don’t file a tax return on time, the IRS may also file a return on your behalf based on the information they have available. This is called a substitute for return (SFR). The SFR will generally be less favorable to you than if you had filed your own return, so it is important to file on time if possible.

If you are unable to file your taxes on time, you should file an extension as soon as possible. This will give you more time to gather your tax documents and complete your return, and it will avoid the late filing penalty.

Here are some tips for avoiding the late filing penalty:

File your taxes electronically. E-filing is the fastest and most accurate way to file your return, and it can also help you avoid the late filing penalty.
File an extension if you need more time. You can file an extension electronically or by mailing Form 4868 to the IRS.
Pay any estimated taxes owed by the original deadline. This will help to reduce the amount of interest that you owe if you do end up filing your return late.

What is the penalty for filing a tax extension?

There is no penalty for filing a tax extension. However, you will still owe any taxes that you owe by the original deadline of April 18th.

In short: Filing a tax extension does not incur a penalty, but you still owe the taxes by April 18th.

What happens if I file an extension and owe money?

If you file an extension and owe money, you will still need to pay the taxes you owe by the original tax deadline, which is typically April 15th. If you do not pay your taxes by the deadline, you may be subject to late payment penalties and interest.

The late payment penalty is 0.5% of the unpaid tax for each month or part of a month that your payment is late, up to a maximum of 25%. The interest rate on unpaid taxes is variable, but it is currently 7% per year.

If you are unable to pay your taxes in full by the deadline, you can set up an installment plan with the IRS. To do this, you will need to file Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request. You can also apply for an Offer in Compromise (OIC), which is a settlement agreement between you and the IRS. If your OIC is approved, you will be able to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed.

To avoid late payment penalties and interest, it is important to file your tax extension as early as possible and to pay as much of your tax liability as you can by the deadline. If you need help paying your taxes, you can contact the IRS or a tax professional.

Here are some additional tips for dealing with a tax debt when you have filed an extension:

Be organized and prepared. Gather all of your tax documents, including your tax returns, W-2 forms, and other relevant documents. This will help you to make an accurate estimate of your tax liability and to develop a plan for paying off your debt.
Be honest and transparent. The IRS is more likely to work with you if you are honest about your financial situation and your reasons for owing taxes.
Be patient and persistent. It may take some time to resolve your tax debt. However, if you are patient and persistent, you may be able to reach a resolution that works for both you and the IRS.

How do I know if my tax extension was accepted?

There are two ways to check if your tax extension was accepted:

Online

You can check the status of your tax extension online using the IRS’s “Where’s My Extension” tool. To use this tool, you will need to enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and ZIP code.

By phone

You can also check the status of your tax extension by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. When you call, you will need to provide your Social Security number and date of birth.

If you filed your extension electronically, you should receive an acknowledgment from the IRS within 48 hours. If you mailed your extension, it may take up to two weeks for the IRS to process your request.

If you have not received an acknowledgment from the IRS within two weeks of filing your extension, you should contact the IRS to check the status of your request.

Here are some additional tips for checking the status of your tax extension:

Make sure that you have entered your Social Security number, date of birth, and ZIP code correctly.
If you filed your extension electronically, check your email and spam folders for an acknowledgment from the IRS.
If you mailed your extension, be sure to allow enough time for the IRS to process your request.
If you have not received an acknowledgment from the IRS within two weeks of filing your extension, contact the IRS to check the status of your request.

Can I file a tax extension with TurboTax?

Yes, you can file a tax extension with TurboTax. It is quick and easy to do, and you can do it online or in the TurboTax app. To file a tax extension with TurboTax, simply follow the instructions on the screen. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and ZIP code. You will also need to estimate your tax liability for the year.

TurboTax will file your tax extension electronically with the IRS. You will receive a confirmation number once your extension has been accepted.

Does filing a tax extension hurt your credit?

Filing a tax extension does not hurt your credit. The IRS does not report tax extension information to the credit bureaus. However, if you do not file your tax return by the extended deadline or if you do not pay your taxes in full, you may be subject to late filing and late payment penalties. These penalties can damage your credit score.

Here are some tips for avoiding late filing and late payment penalties:

File your tax extension as early as possible. This will give you more time to gather your tax documents and complete your return.
Pay as much of your tax liability as you can by the extended deadline.
If you are unable to pay your taxes in full by the extended deadline, contact the IRS to set up an installment plan.

It is important to note that your credit score is based on a number of factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, and length of credit history. Filing a tax extension is just one factor that could potentially impact your credit score.

If you are concerned about your credit score, you can check your credit report for free once a year from each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can also get a free credit score from many banks and credit unions.

Do I have to file an extension if I owe nothing?

No, you are not required to file an extension if you owe nothing. However, there are a few reasons why you might still want to file an extension, even if you do not owe any taxes.

Reasons to file a tax extension even if you owe nothing:

You have not yet received all of your W-2 forms or other tax documents.
You are not sure if you qualify for any deductions or credits.
You are in the middle of moving or have other personal circumstances that are making it difficult to complete your tax return on time.
You are expecting a refund and want to avoid delaying your refund.

If you are considering filing an extension, it is important to weigh the pros and cons. Filing an extension will give you more time to complete your tax return, but it will also delay your refund, if you are expecting one.

If you do decide to file an extension, you can do so electronically using the IRS Free File program or by mailing in Form 4868.

Here are some additional tips for filing a tax extension:

File your extension as early as possible. This will give you more time to gather your tax documents and complete your return.
Be sure to pay any estimated taxes owed by the original tax deadline.
If you have any questions about filing an extension, you can contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.

Which states do not accept federal extensions?

The following states do not accept the federal tax extension:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
Idaho
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Mississippi
Missouri
Nebraska
New Hampshire
North Dakota
Oklahoma
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
West Virginia
Wyoming

If you live in one of these states and need to file an extension, you will need to file a separate state extension form. You can find the state extension form on the website of your state’s Department of Revenue.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and the rules and regulations regarding tax extensions vary from state to state. It is always best to check with your state’s Department of Revenue to confirm the specific requirements for filing a state tax extension.

Can a CPA file an extension without my permission?

No, a CPA cannot file an extension without your permission. The CPA must have your authorization to file an extension on your behalf. This authorization can be given in writing, verbally, or electronically.

If a CPA files an extension without your permission, it is considered a breach of contract and a violation of the CPA’s ethical obligations. You may have legal recourse against the CPA for this breach of trust.

If you suspect that your CPA has filed an extension without your permission, you should contact them immediately to demand an explanation. You should also contact the State Board of Accountancy to file a complaint.

Here are some tips for avoiding problems with your CPA:

Choose a CPA who is licensed and has a good reputation.
Get everything in writing, including your engagement agreement and the scope of work.
Communicate regularly with your CPA and provide them with all of the information they need to complete your tax return.
Review your tax return carefully before signing it.
If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to ask your CPA.

You can also find more information about CPAs and their ethical obligations on the website of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

Does an extension trigger an audit?

Filing a tax extension does not automatically trigger an audit. However, there are a few factors that may increase your chances of being audited, even if you have filed an extension.

These factors include:

The amount of your tax liability: If you owe a significant amount of taxes, you are more likely to be audited.
The complexity of your tax return: If your tax return is complex, such as if you have multiple businesses or income sources, you are more likely to be audited.
Inconsistencies on your tax return: If the IRS finds any inconsistencies on your tax return, it may trigger an audit.
Red flags: There are certain red flags that the IRS looks for when auditing tax returns. These red flags include large deductions, unusual income, and foreign income.

Even if you meet one or more of these criteria, it does not mean that you will definitely be audited. The IRS conducts a limited number of audits each year, and it selects taxpayers to audit based on a variety of factors.

Here are some tips to avoid being audited:

File your tax return on time and accurately.
Report all of your income and deductions accurately.
Keep good records to support your deductions.
Be prepared to answer any questions that the IRS may have about your tax return.

If you are audited, the IRS will contact you by mail or phone. You will have the opportunity to review your tax return with an IRS auditor and explain any deductions or credits that you have claimed. If you disagree with the auditor’s findings, you can file an appeal.

Here are some tips for dealing with an audit:

Be cooperative and respectful.
Provide the auditor with all of the requested documentation.
If you have any questions, ask the auditor to explain their findings.
If you disagree with the auditor’s findings, file an appeal.

Does filing an extension extend the statute of limitations?

Yes, filing an extension extends the statute of limitations for the IRS to assess additional taxes. The statute of limitations is the period of time during which the IRS can audit your tax return and assess additional taxes.

The general statute of limitations for the IRS to assess additional taxes is three years from the date the tax return was due or filed, whichever is later. However, if you file an extension, the statute of limitations is extended by the amount of time the extension is for. For example, if you file a six-month extension, the statute of limitations is extended by six months.

There are a few exceptions to the statute of limitations, such as if you omit more than 25% of your income from your tax return or if you file a fraudulent tax return. In these cases, the IRS can audit your tax return and assess additional taxes at any time.

If you are concerned about the statute of limitations, you should consult with a tax advisor. A tax advisor can help you to determine the statute of limitations for your tax return and can advise you on how to protect your rights.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the statute of limitations:

The statute of limitations is suspended while the IRS is conducting an audit.
The statute of limitations is restarted if you sign a waiver agreeing to extend the time limit for the IRS to assess additional taxes.
The statute of limitations does not apply to interest or penalties on unpaid taxes.

Can IRS collect taxes after 10 years?

Generally, no, the IRS cannot collect taxes after 10 years. This is called the statute of limitations. However, there are a few exceptions, such as if you filed a fraudulent tax return or omitted more than 25% of your income.

What raises a red flag for an audit?

The IRS uses a variety of factors to select tax returns for audit. Some of the most common red flags include:

High income: Taxpayers with high incomes are more likely to be audited. This is because the IRS believes that taxpayers with high incomes are more likely to have complex tax returns and are more likely to make mistakes.
Large deductions: Taxpayers who claim large deductions are more likely to be audited. This is because the IRS wants to make sure that taxpayers are properly substantiating their deductions.
Unreported income: Taxpayers who fail to report all of their income are more likely to be audited. This is because the IRS has a number of tools to detect unreported income, such as matching information from W-2 forms and 1099 forms to tax returns.
Inconsistent information: Taxpayers who provide inconsistent information on their tax returns are more likely to be audited. This is because the IRS wants to make sure that taxpayers are accurately reporting their income and deductions.
Foreign income: Taxpayers who have foreign income are more likely to be audited. This is because the IRS has found that taxpayers with foreign income are more likely to make mistakes on their tax returns.

In addition to these general red flags, the IRS also targets specific industries and groups of taxpayers for audit. For example, the IRS has been known to target small businesses, self-employed taxpayers, and taxpayers with high incomes from rental properties.

If you are concerned about the possibility of being audited, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk:

File your tax return on time and accurately.
Report all of your income and deductions accurately.
Keep good records to support your deductions.
Be prepared to answer any questions that the IRS may have about your tax return.

What is the IRS 3-year rule?

The IRS 3-year rule, also known as the statute of limitations, is a general rule that limits the amount of time the IRS has to audit your tax return and assess additional taxes. Under the 3-year rule, the IRS has three years from the date your tax return was due or filed, whichever is later, to audit your return and assess additional taxes.

There are a few exceptions to the 3-year rule. For example, the IRS has six years to audit your return if you omit more than 25% of your income from your tax return. The IRS also has unlimited time to audit your return if you file a fraudulent tax return.

If the IRS does not audit your return within the 3-year statute of limitations, it is generally barred from assessing additional taxes. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if you agree to extend the statute of limitations in writing, or if the IRS suspends the statute of limitations while it is conducting an audit, the IRS may still be able to assess additional taxes after the 3-year period has expired.

If you have any questions about the IRS 3-year rule or your tax liability, you should consult with a tax advisor.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the IRS 3-year rule:

The 3-year rule applies to both federal and state income taxes.
The 3-year rule does not apply to interest or penalties on unpaid taxes.
If you file an amended tax return, the 3-year rule is restarted for the items that were amended.

What is the IRS 6-year rule?

The IRS 6-year rule is a specific exception to the 3-year statute of limitations for assessing additional taxes. Under the 6-year rule, the IRS has six years to audit your tax return and assess additional taxes if you:

Omit more than 25% of your gross income from your tax return, or
Claim a fraudulent deduction or credit on your tax return.

The 6-year rule also applies to certain other situations, such as if you file a false or fraudulent foreign tax return.

If the IRS audits your tax return under the 6-year rule, it may be able to assess additional taxes and penalties, even if the statute of limitations for the year under audit has expired.

Here are some examples of situations where the 6-year rule might apply:

You fail to report all of your income from a business or rental property.
You claim a fraudulent deduction for charitable contributions or business expenses.
You claim a fraudulent credit, such as the earned income tax credit or the child tax credit.
You file a false foreign tax return.

If you are concerned that the 6-year rule might apply to you, you should consult with a tax advisor. A tax advisor can help you determine if you are at risk of being audited and can advise you on how to protect your rights.

Please note that the 6-year rule does not apply to interest or penalties on unpaid taxes. The IRS can collect interest and penalties on unpaid taxes for an unlimited period of time.

Who gets audited by IRS the most?

The following groups of taxpayers are more likely to be audited by the IRS:

Taxpayers with high incomes: The IRS tends to audit taxpayers with high incomes more often because they have more complex tax returns and are more likely to make mistakes.
Taxpayers who claim large deductions: The IRS also tends to audit taxpayers who claim large deductions because it wants to make sure that these deductions are properly substantiated.
Taxpayers who report foreign income: Taxpayers who have foreign income are also more likely to be audited because the IRS has found that these taxpayers are more likely to make mistakes on their tax returns.
Taxpayers who file late or amended returns: Taxpayers who file their tax returns late or who file amended returns are also more likely to be audited.
Taxpayers who are involved in a business that is under scrutiny by the IRS: Taxpayers who are involved in a business that is under scrutiny by the IRS, such as a business that is suspected of tax fraud, are more likely to be audited.

The IRS also uses a variety of computer programs to select tax returns for audit. These programs are designed to identify tax returns that have a high risk of errors or fraud.

It is important to note that being audited does not necessarily mean that you have done anything wrong. The IRS audits a small percentage of tax returns each year, and most of these audits are routine. However, if the IRS finds that you have made mistakes on your tax return, you may be liable for additional taxes and penalties.

If you are audited by the IRS, it is important to be cooperative and to provide the auditor with all of the requested documentation. You should also be prepared to answer any questions that the auditor may have about your tax return. If you disagree with the auditor’s findings, you can file an appeal.