Need a tax extension? Don’t stress. The IRS has a built-in safety net, and it’s called Form 4868.
If you know you can’t get your full tax return done by the April 15 deadline, this one form gives you an extra six months to file. Yup, it’s that simple. But don’t get too comfy, there’s a catch you need to know.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Form 4868?
Form 4868 is the IRS Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. That’s a mouthful, but here’s what it really means:
- It gives you until October 15, 2025 to file your federal return.
- You don’t need to give a reason.
- It’s automatically approved as long as you submit it on time, by midnight local time on April 15.
Filing this form helps you dodge the big 5% monthly late filing penalty. But it’s not a pass on paying what you owe.
You Still Have to Pay Taxes by April 15
Here’s the important part: Form 4868 buys time to file, not to pay.
If you owe taxes, you’re still expected to estimate that amount and pay by April 15. If you don’t, you’ll rack up 0.5% late payment penalties and interest, starting the day after the deadline.
So if you file an extension but pay nothing? You could still get hit with penalties. Pay something, anything, if you can.
How to File Form 4868 Today
You’ve got a few fast options:
1. Use Free File on IRS.gov
Even if your income is too high for IRS Free File software, you can use Free Fillable Forms to submit Form 4868 online for free.
2. Use Tax Software
TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, and others let you file Form 4868 easily, even if you haven’t finished your return. Look for the “extension” option in your dashboard.
3. Submit by Mail
You can still print and mail the form, but it must be postmarked April 15 to count. Not ideal for last-minute filers, but still valid.
Can You Still Get a Refund If You File an Extension?
Absolutely. If the IRS owes you money, filing an extension won’t hurt your refund, as long as you file by October 15. In fact, it can give you time to make sure you claim every credit and deduction possible.
But if you’re getting a refund, consider just filing today. There’s no penalty for filing late when you’re owed money, but why wait?
If the April 15 tax deadline snuck up on you, Form 4868 is your best friend right now for an extension. It’s fast, free, and easy to file, and it gives you time to breathe. Just remember: pay what you can now to avoid interest and late fees later.
It’s not procrastination. It’s buying time the smart way.
