📌 What is an IRS Tax Extension?
An IRS tax extension gives you an extra 6 months to file your federal income tax return — but it doesn’t give you extra time to pay any taxes you owe. You still need to estimate and pay what you owe by the original due date (usually April 15) to avoid penalties and interest.
📅 2025 Deadlines:
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Original tax filing deadline: April 15, 2025
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Extended filing deadline: October 15, 2025
📄 How to File a Tax Extension:
You have a couple of options:
Option 1: Online (Free)
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Use IRS Free File: IRS Free File
(Select "Request an Extension" option)
Option 2: Mail Form 4868
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Download and fill out Form 4868 (Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return)
Form 4868 PDF -
Mail it to the address listed on the form instructions for your location
💰 If You Owe Taxes:
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Estimate your tax liability and pay what you can by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
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You can pay via:
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IRS Direct Pay (bank transfer)
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Debit/credit card
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EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System)
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📌 Important:
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Filing an extension doesn’t postpone your payment deadline.
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It only gives you more time to file your paperwork.