How to Appeal a Declined Tax Extension Request

When you find that you cannot file your income tax return by the due date, you can request an automatic 6 month extension. You can either use e-file to get the extension or file a paper Form 4868. You may be denied if you request the extension after the regular due date for filing. If your request for an extension is denied, you can appeal that decision.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pay the estimated tax that is due by the regular filing date of your tax return to limit interest and penalties that can be assessed. An extension for filing does not allow you to delay paying taxes due on the regular filing date.

2. Review the reasons given by the IRS for denial of your request for a filing extension and decide if there are extenuating circumstances which warrants an appeal. The circumstances could be health problems, family illness or death, or other unforeseen problems.

3. Appeal the rejection by contacting the IRS unit that denied the request.

4. Contact the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service at [phone] if you cannot resolve the issue with the IRS unit that denied the extension.

Tips & Warnings

• Filing extensions beyond the automatic 6 months are generally not granted.