If April 15 is looming and your paperwork is still a work in progress, don’t panic. Filing an extension is a standard, automatic process that gives you an extra six months—moving your filing deadline for the 2025 tax year to October 15, 2026.
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Before you start, remember: An extension to file is NOT an extension to pay.
- The Paperwork: You have until October to submit your forms.
- The Payment: Any taxes owed are still due by April 15, 2026. To avoid interest and late-payment penalties, you must estimate your liability and pay it by the original deadline.
3 Ways to File Your Extension
1. The “One-Step” Payment (Most Efficient)
If you already know you owe money, you can bypass the forms entirely.
- The Action: Use IRS Direct Pay or EFTPS.
- The Trick: When making your payment, select “Extension” as the reason for the transaction.
- The Result: The IRS will automatically register your extension without you ever having to look at Form 4868.
2. IRS Free File (The Digital Route)
Available to everyone regardless of income, this is the most secure way to file electronically.
- The Action: Visit IRS.gov/freefile.
- The Process: Use the software to e-file Form 4868. You’ll receive an electronic confirmation within 24 hours, giving you peace of mind that your request was received.
3. Form 4868 (The Traditional Route)
If you prefer to handle things by mail, you can go the paper route.
- The Action: Download and print Form 4868 from the IRS website.
- The Process: Fill out the identification section and your estimated tax balance.
- The Deadline: Ensure it is postmarked by April 15, 2026.
Don’t Forget Your State
While a federal extension is a great start, it doesn’t always cover your state taxes.
- Check the Rules: Some states grant an automatic extension if your federal one is approved; others require a separate state-specific form.
- Quick Fix: A quick search of your state’s “Department of Revenue” will tell you if you need to file twice.
Pro Tip: Even if you can’t pay the full amount you owe, file the extension anyway. The penalty for failing to file is significantly higher than the penalty for late payment.
