Additional Extensions of Time to File a Tax Return

A taxpayer cannot request a second extension to file a personal income tax return with the IRS. Instead, the taxpayer can request an automatic extension of time by filing Form 4868, this will grant the taxpayer an extra 6 months to file the tax returns.

Earlier, the taxpayer could request an automatic 4-month extension followed by a 2-month extension. Form 2688, which was used to request the second extension is no longer in use.

Requesting and filing an extension is simple and involves no complex process. Before filing an extension, understand the necessity of it. Requesting the extension is asking the IRS for extra time to file the tax return. The deadline to file the personal tax return is 15^th April.  When the taxpayer files Form 4868 with the IRS, the IRS extends the deadline by six months. Then the new deadline will be 15^th October.

However, the tax payments are still due by 15^th April 2018. Note that the extension is only for filing the tax returns, not for paying the tax dues. The IRS will charge penalties and interests on the tax payments that are made after 15^th April.

• Check the tax calendar for filing deadlines.
• Check the directory of state tax extensions, to get information about filing an extension.

How to file an extension? :

1. Before starting to file, create a rough draft of the tax return, this will give an idea of whether you need to pay or you have a refund.
2. Download Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time and fill it out. When you owe tax to the IRS, enter the check for the tax amount that you owe.|
3. Mail the extension request along with your check. Remember that the extension must be postmarked on or before 18^th April or 19^th April. It is better to send the mail through certified mail along with a return receipt request. This will give you proof that you mailed the extension request and proof, that it was received from the IRS.
4. The taxpayer can also file the extension request online. To do so, you need to e-file the request before midnight of the deadline date. This process is simple and you can complete the request within a few minutes.

The Bottom Line:

You can e-file your online tax extension request through Tax2efile. We complete the process for you and ensure that you get the extension time from the IRS. To do so register with Tax2efile and Start E-filing!