Extension of Time To File Your Tax Return

What to do if you haven’t filed your tax return

Need more time to prepare your federal tax return? This page provides information on how to apply for an extension of time to file. Please be aware that:

  • An extension of time to file your return does not grant you any extension of time to pay your taxes. 
  • You should estimate and pay any owed taxes by your regular deadline to help avoid possible penalties.
  • You must file your extension request no later than the regular due date of your return.
  • Taxpayers in certain disaster areas do not need to submit an extension electronically or on paper. Check to see if you qualify and the due date of your return.

E-file Your Extension Form for Free

Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can use IRS Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension.

  • Filing this form gives you until October 15 to file a return.
     
    • If October 15 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the due date is delayed until the next business day. Your return is considered filed on time if the envelope is properly addressed, postmarked, and deposited in the mail by the due date.
       
  • To get the extension, you must estimate your tax liability on this form and should also pay any amount due.

Get an extension when you make a payment

You can also get an extension by electronically paying all or part of your estimated income tax due and indicating the payment is for an extension. You can make a same day payment or schedule a payment by accessing  your IRS Individual Online Account, using Direct Pay, using the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) or with a credit or debit card. If extension is selected when making your payment, you won’t have to file a separate extension form and you’ll receive a confirmation number for your records.

Extension Forms

Individuals

Special rules may apply if you are:

Business and Corporations

Other Forms