TAX RETURN EXTENSION: What It Is, Deadline & How To File It

Tax return extension
Image Credit: Tsk Tax

A tax return extension is an IRS-authorized extension of time to file a tax return. Taxpayers who cannot meet their 2023 deadline to file their tax or gift return can request an extension by filing Form 4868 with the IRS. While an extension gives you more time to file your taxes, it does not give you more time to pay any taxes you may owe. If you think you owe money to the IRS, it is best to estimate the amount and send a payment with your extension request. Consequently, we have covered, in this article, how to file a tax return extension and other vital things you should know. Let’s dive in!

What Is A Tax Return Extension? 

A tax return extension is an IRS-approved paper that allows taxpayers to file their tax or gift using Form 4868 before the deadline. A tax return extension is an IRS-approved paper that allows taxpayers who couldn’t meet the deadline of 2023 to file their tax or gift return. The extension allows them to request more time to file a tax return.

The IRS allows taxpayers to file for an extension if they cannot file their tax return by the April 15th deadline. Taxpayers can request a tax return extension by filing Form 4868 with the IRS. The form must be filed by the tax return due date and accompanied by a payment for any tax owed.

Tax return extensions are available to all taxpayers, regardless of income. However, taxpayers must request the extension before the tax return due date. Tax return extensions are not automatic. So, taxpayers who do not request an extension will be subject to penalties and interest.

What Is A Gift Tax Return?

A gift tax return is a federal tax return that must be filed by the person who made a gift of money or property to another person. The gift tax return is used to calculate the amount of tax that the giver of the gift owes to the federal government. The tax is usually on the value of the gift while the tax rate is on the relationship between the giver and the recipient.

If you cannot file your gift tax return by the due date, you can request an extension from the IRS. To do so, you’ll need to file Form 8892. This form must show the return’s original due date, and it will give you an additional four months to file.

And if you’re expecting to owe gift tax, you may also need to pay an estimated tax with your extension request. To do this, you must include a check or money order with your Form 8892. And make sure to include your name, address, and daytime phone number on this payment, and make it out to “United States Treasury.”

Who Qualifies For A Tax Extension? 

The tax extension is available to any taxpayer who cannot file their tax return by the April 15th deadline. This includes individuals, sole proprietors, corporations, businesses, and trusts. The extension provides an additional six months to file your return. That is, they are giving you until October 15th to complete and submit your taxes. To qualify for a tax extension, you must file Form 4868 with the IRS. This form must follow the April 15th deadline to receive the extension.

If you are expecting a refund, there is no penalty for filing a tax extension. However, if you owe taxes and do not file for an extension, you will be subject to late fees and interest charges. Therefore, it is in your best interest to file for a tax extension if you cannot meet the April 15th deadline.

How To File A Tax Return Extension

If you’re not able to file your taxes by the April 15 deadline, you can request a tax extension from the IRS. This will give you an extra six months to file your return, but it is important to note that an extension only gives you more time to file, not more time to pay any taxes you may owe.

To request a tax return extension, you’ll need to file Form 4868 with the IRS. You can do it electronically or by mail.

How to File a Tax Return Electronically:

You can file for an extension electronically using the IRS’s e-file system. To do so, you’ll need to:

  • First, fill out and submit Form 4868, which you can find on the IRS website. 
  • Secondly, provide your name, address, Social Security number, and the reason why you’re requesting an extension and submit the form.
  • Finally, you’ll receive confirmation from the IRS if your extension is approved or not.

How to File a Tax Extension By Mail:

If you cannot file your taxes by the April 15 deadline, you can request a tax-filing extension from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This will give you an extra six months to file your return, until October 15. To do this, you will need to:

  • First, apply and file a tax return extension Form 4868 with the IRS. You download the form via the IRS website or you can request it by mail by calling 1-800-829-3676.
  • When you mail Form 4868, you should include a check or money order for any taxes you owe. You will also need to include your name, address, Social Security number, signature on Form 4868, and the tax year for which you are requesting the extension. 
  • Then, mail the form to the address listed on the form for your state.
  • Once the IRS receives your form and payment, they will process your extension and send you a confirmation letter.

Keep in mind that an extension to file is not an extension to pay. If you think you’ll owe taxes when you file your return, you should estimate the amount and send it to the IRS with your extension request. This will help you avoid penalties and interest charges.

Additionally, if you cannot pay the full amount of taxes you owe, you should still file your tax return by the April 15th deadline and pay as much as you can to avoid penalties and interest. You can make arrangements with the IRS to pay the balance owed through a payment plan.

When Is The Tax Return Extension Deadline For 2023 

The 2023 Tax Return Extension Deadline is April 18th. This is the same date as the regular tax return deadline. However, if you cannot file your return by this date, you can get an extension. You will need to file Form 4868 to get an extension. This will give you an extra six months to file your return.

If you want more than six months to file your tax return, you can request an additional extension and file Form 2688 with the IRS. The IRS management will grant you additional extension at the discretion but you must provide a valid reason for the request, such as if you’re out of the country or have a complex tax return.

In addition, if you are expecting a refund, there is no penalty for filing an extension. However, if you owe taxes and do not pay by the original deadline, you will be subject to late penalties and interest charges. Therefore, pay any outstanding taxes even if you are filing an extension.

What To Do If You Miss The Deadline For Filing A Tax Return Extension

If you miss the deadline for filing a tax return extension, you may be subject to penalties and interest. The best course of action is to file your return as soon as possible. If you cannot file your return on time, you should contact the IRS to discuss your options.

The Benefits Of Filing For A Tax Return Extension

There are a few benefits to filing for a tax extension. 

  • First, it can help to reduce your stress levels if you know you won’t be able to file on time. 
  • Second, it can help you to avoid penalties and interest charges from the IRS. 
  • Finally, it can give you more time to gather all the necessary documents and information to complete your return.

Overall, requesting a tax extension can be a helpful way to manage your taxes if you’re not able to file by the April deadline

What Is The Extension Date For Tax Returns? 

The extension date for tax returns is April 15. This is the date that the IRS allows taxpayers to file their taxes without penalty. It is also for federal taxes and is the same every year. State tax return deadlines vary, so it’s important to check with your state’s tax agency for the correct date. If you file for an extension, you will have until October 15 to file your return.

How Do I File An Extension On My Income Tax Return? 

If you find yourself in a position where you cannot file your income tax return by the April deadline, you can file for an extension. This will give you an extra six months to file your return, making the new deadline October 15. 

Meanwhile, you can file for an extension using Form 4868 from the IRS. You can do it electronically or by mail. You will need to estimate your tax liability on the form and pay any taxes owed. If you do not pay your outstanding taxes, they will charge you interest and penalties.

What Happens If I File Tax Extension? 

If you file for an extension of time to file your taxes, the IRS will not assess any penalties for late filing. 

What Is The Penalty For Tax Extension?

There is no penalty for filing a tax extension. However, you will owe interest on any unpaid taxes from April 15th. 

Conclusion

The IRS grants taxpayers an automatic six-month extension to file their tax return, meaning the new deadline is October 15th. This extension is granted regardless of the reason for the delay, and taxpayers may not need to explain why they are requesting the extension. However, the extension is not an extension of time to pay the taxes you owe. You must pay all the taxes you owe by April 15th to avoid penalties and interest charges.

References

Investopedia

Nerdwallet

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