How to Get an Extension From the IRS for Personal Taxes

Situations can arise that make it difficult or impossible to file your income tax return on time. Don't make the common mistake of simply delaying. Doing so will incur a 5 percent per month penalty on any amount due the IRS, plus interest. The penalty can go up to 25 percent of the amount due. You may file an extension very easily either by mail or online. As long as you do so, you get an extra six months to file. You may have to pay interest on money you owe (0.5 percent as of 2009) but no penalty.

Things You'll Need

• IRS Form 4868

Instructions

1. Obtain a paper IRS Form 4868 to file for an extension. You can pick one up at any IRS office or call the IRS help line toll free at 1-(800)-829-1040 and request a copy. Form 4868 is also available for download in PDF format at the Internal Revenue Service website irs.gov.

2. Complete and mail Form 4868 by midnight April 15. This is a very short form. You need to provide your name, address and Social Security number (plus your spouse's Social Security number if you are married). The IRS also requests an estimate of your income and taxes already paid. You should enclose a check or money order for any balance due that you think you owe, but this is not mandatory. Don't forget to sign the form before you drop it in the mail.

3. File for an extension online at irs.gov if you wish. An electronically filed extension must be posted before midnight April 15. Go to irs.gov and click on "Individual Taxpayers." You want to choose "File Online for Free." On the screen you'll see options for "Free File" and "Free Filable Forms." Below that is a button to file for an extension. Just click and enter the required information.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to use the free filing options that the IRS provides, you may still do so after filing an extension. Access to the systems is maintained during the extension filing period.

References

• IRS: Extension Information and Forms
• IRS: Filing Late and/or Paying Late
• Late Payment and Late Filing Penalties