If tax season sneaked up on you, don’t panic. Requesting a tax extension is incredibly common, completely free, and available to almost anyone regardless of income.

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However, there is one golden rule you cannot ignore: An extension gives you more time to file your paperwork, NOT more time to pay your bill.

The Critical Dates (2025 Tax Year)

• April 15, 2026: Deadline to request an extension AND pay any estimated taxes owed.
• October 15, 2026: Your new, extended deadline to submit your completed tax return.

Automatic Extensions: U.S. citizens living/working abroad, military members in combat zones, and victims of FEMA-declared natural disasters generally get extra time automatically without needing to file a form.

How to File an Extension in 4 Steps

Step 1: Run the Numbers (Estimate if You Owe)

Before doing anything, estimate your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).

• Expecting a refund? You technically won’t face penalties for filing late, but submitting an extension is still highly recommended just in case your math is off.
• Think you’ll owe? Move to Step 2 and get ready to make a payment.

Step 2: File IRS Form 4868

To get your 6-month buffer, you must submit Form 4868 by April 15. You can do this by:

• Using IRS Free File (if your AGI is $89,000 or less).
• Using commercial tax software or hiring a tax pro.
• Mailing a physical paper form.

Step 3: Don’t Forget Your State Taxes

A federal extension doesn’t always cover your state return. Some states automatically match the federal extension, while others require you to submit a separate state-specific form. Check your state’s Department of Revenue website to be safe.

Step 4: Handle the Bill (Even if You Can’t Pay in Full)

To avoid interest and late fees, pay as much of your estimated bill as possible by April 15. If cash is tight, the IRS offers safety nets:

• Balances under $50,000: Eligible for long-term monthly installment payment plans.
• Balances between $50,000 and $100,000: Eligible for a short-term repayment plan (up to 180 days).

Penalties at a Glance

Missing deadlines can be costly. Here is how the IRS handles penalties if you don’t take action:

If you…	The Penalty	The Cost
File an extension on time	Failure-to-File Penalty	$0 (Avoided entirely)
Miss the deadline entirely	Failure-to-File Penalty	5% per month of the unpaid tax balance
File on time but pay late	Failure-to-Pay Penalty	0.5% per month of the unpaid balance (up to 25% max)

Editing by Katie willimas