How to eFile the Form 4868

Filing income taxes is getting easier. In 2010, nearly 70 percent of American taxpayers who filed tax returns used online filing, the Internal Revenue Service reports. Even more surprising, nearly 35 percent of those filing federal income tax returns in 2010 did so from a home computer. Apply for an automatic extension to file your individual tax return with the use of Form 4868. You can file this form online from your tax software or from the IRS website.

Instructions

1. Locate last year's tax return or tax information. If you use tax software, you may find the information by opening the software for last year. This information is essential to completing a Form 4868 for this year as this is required security information.

2. Review the IRS Form 4868. Part I includes your personal information and Social Security number. Part II requires an estimate of your tax liability for the year and the total of all payments made for the year.

3. Determine the amount you can pay on your estimated taxes and method of payment. Filing for an extension does not grant an extension for payment of tax due. Form 4868 extends the time to file a tax return only, giving you up to six months to file your Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ. You may pay with debit or credit card, by telephone or online. You may also print the Form 4868 and send a check or money order by mail with the form.

4. Complete the Form 4868 from the Free File Fillable Forms on the IRS website or from your tax software, using the instructions provided with the form. Submit the form online and wait for confirmation.

Tips & Warnings

• File for an extension before April 15 so you are not assessed a late filing penalty. Even if you cannot pay your estimated taxes, file for an extension and pay whatever portion you can pay.

• File your tax return anytime within the six months extension. Do not attach a copy of Form 4868 to your Form 1040.

• If you pay by credit card or debit card, the services that accept payments for the IRS charge a convenience fee, which will add to your expense.

References

• IRS.gov: Form 4868 - Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return
• IRS.gov: Newsroom: Nearly 70 Percent of Taxpayers Used IRS e-file in 2010
• IRS.gov: Free File Fillable Forms -- List of Available Forms