Requesting an Extension to File Your Tax Return
If you need more time to file your U.S. individual income tax return, you can request an automatic 6-month extension. However, you must submit your extension request by the regular due date of your return to avoid late filing penalties. Keep in mind that an extension to file does not grant you extra time to pay any taxes owed.
There are three ways to request an extension:
Make a Payment with Your Extension Request:
You can pay all or part of your estimated tax liability and indicate that the payment is for a filing extension. Use one of the following payment methods:IRS Direct Pay
Online Account
EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System)
Debit or Credit Card
Digital Wallet (e.g., Click to Pay, PayPal, or Venmo)
You'll receive a confirmation number to keep for your records.
E-file Form 4868:
Submit Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return electronically using tax software or through a tax professional.When e-filing, have a copy of your prior year’s return available, as you'll need to enter your previous year’s AGI (Adjusted Gross Income) for identity verification.
You'll receive an electronic acknowledgment once the IRS accepts your extension request.
File a Paper Form 4868:
Mail a completed Form 4868 to the IRS if you prefer a paper submission.
Note: Fiscal year taxpayers can only request extensions by filing a paper Form 4868.
Several companies offer free e-filing of Form 4868 through the Free File program.
Extensions for Taxpayers Outside the U.S.
If you're a U.S. citizen or resident alien living or serving outside the U.S. or Puerto Rico, you automatically qualify for a 2-month extension (typically until June 15) without needing to request it. This applies if, on the regular due date of your return, you are either:
Living outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico, with your main place of business or post of duty also located outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Serving in the military or naval forces outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
To claim this automatic 2-month extension, attach a statement to your return explaining your eligibility.
You can also request an additional 4-month extension by filing Form 4868 and checking the box on line 8. This provides a total of 6 months to file your return. However, this additional time does not extend the payment deadline.
For more information, refer to Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad.