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Step 1
If you need to file for a federal income tax extension then go to irs.gov and download federal tax form 4868. This form is called "Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return".
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Step 2
The form to file for a federal income tax extension is short, but make sure that you read all the instructions and follow them closely. You do not want to make a mistake on this. If you do then it will not be valid and you may not know until after the deadline to file federal tax returns.
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Step 3
If you are using software like Taxcut or Turbotax use them to file the federal income tax extension electronically. This will get it there faster. I would recommend these software programs to file the extension, or to just file your taxes. I will include links to them in the resources section.
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Step 4
You must file the federal income tax extension before the deadline to file taxes, April 15. You can not file a federal income tax extension after that date. If you know you are going to have to file a federal income tax extension be sure that you do it as soon as you can.
