As the April 15 tax deadline approaches, many individuals may find themselves in need of more time to file their income tax returns. To alleviate the stress that often accompanies tax season, the IRS provides an option for taxpayers to request a tax extension, allowing an additional six months to submit their returns without penalty.

Current Filing Statistics

As of April 4, approximately 100 million tax returns have already been filed. The IRS anticipates over 140 million submissions by the April 15 deadline, indicating that many taxpayers are still working on their 1040 forms.

Filing Deadline for 2025

For those filing for the year 2025, the deadline is set for April 15, at 11:59 p.m. local time. However, certain circumstances grant extensions:

• U.S. citizens and resident aliens living abroad automatically receive a two-month extension.
• Military personnel stationed in combat zones have up to 180 days after leaving the combat area to file their returns.
• Due to natural disasters, residents in states including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina have until May 1 to file. Additional extensions apply to specific counties, with deadlines extending to October 15 in some cases.

How to File a Tax Extension

Filing a tax extension is straightforward and can be done online via the IRS. Taxpayers can utilize the online payment system, which includes an option to request an extension, or they may choose to electronically file Form 4868, the Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.

The form requires basic information such as your name, address, and Social Security number, and it can be submitted either electronically or by mail.

Important Considerations Regarding Payments

Receiving an extension does not extend the deadline for any payment due. Taxpayers must still pay any owed tax by April 15 to avoid penalties, as the IRS states, “an extension gives extra time to file but does not grant additional time to pay if money is owed.”

Potential Penalties for Late Filing

Filing your taxes late can result in penalties from the IRS. Specifically, the “failure to file penalty” is 5% of the unpaid tax for each month the filing is overdue, capped at 25%. Furthermore, if a return is filed but payment is not made by the April 15 deadline, a “failure to pay penalty” of 0.5% applies to unpaid taxes, also capped at 25%.

Options for Taxpayers Who Cannot Afford to Pay

For those unable to pay their tax bill, the IRS offers flexible solutions through short-term and long-term payment plans. Taxpayers interested in these options can learn more by visiting the IRS’s official website.