Your life is busy and deadlines can be hard to meet. April 15th is on a Sunday this year and Monday is a holiday, so the tax deadline is pushed back to April 17th. Whether you just can’t get organized or all your tax information hasn’t come in, you might just need more time to get those tax returns filed by the deadline, even with those extra two days.
Not ready? Not a problem! You can get an automatic six-month extension to file your taxes.
Two things to know if you’re not ready to file your taxes by April 17th:
- Requesting an Extension
Individual taxpayers use IRS Form 4868 to request an automatic extension to file their federal income tax return. An extension can be filed on the IRS website, e-filed using approved tax software, or in paper form. Paper forms must be postmarked or date-stamped before midnight of the due date.
Requesting an extension to file your state taxes varies based on where you live. Check your state’s tax website for instructions and details.
- What to Do if You Owe
You have to estimate your tax liability and figure out your tax withheld and/or paid quarterly to prepare your extension request. If you will owe more tax than you’ve already paid in, the balance due must be paid with your extension request. Failure to pay will result in an underpayment penalty and interest on the unpaid amount, accrued daily until it’s paid. That really adds up.
If you are getting a refund, your extension is automatically approved. But you still have to wait until your return is filed to get your tax refund.
Need more details about estimating your 2017 tax liability and getting a tax filing extension? Go to the IRS website and your state tax website. Need more guidance? Consult a qualified tax professional.