Tips to help you file an extension
Frequently asked questions You can file an extension for free through our Easy Extension website. Generally, no. However, there are a few cases in which you can. Learn more If you’re getting a federal refund, the short answer is no. However,
it’s still a good idea to file an extension to protect yourself, and it’s free to do so. Learn more It varies from state to state. If your state requires it and you’re filing with TurboTax,
there’s a direct link to file an extension when you go to complete your state return. Learn more If you filed for an extension, you’ll have until October 15 to submit your return. You don’t
need to do anything extra to finish up in TurboTax. Once your return is done and you’re ready to file, we’ll guide you through the next steps. Learn more true Top Updated for Tax Year 2021 • December 17, 2021 11:00 AM OVERVIEW If you're unable to complete your federal tax return by the deadline, find out how to get an IRS extension on your taxes and extend your tax filing deadline until October. For information on the third coronavirus relief package, please visit our “American Rescue Plan: What Does it Mean for You and a Third Stimulus Check” blog post. Overview Your personal income taxes are (almost) always due on April 15, unless the 15th falls on a holiday or weekend. If you are having trouble meeting this deadline, you can submit a short form and obtain an extension of time to file. The IRS offers the extension, regardless of your reasons for needing it. So if you simply forget about the deadline, it's irrelevant. This extension gives you extra time—until Oct. 15 (again, barring weekends or holidays) — to file your federal tax return. Step 1: Estimate taxes owedEstimate the amount of taxes you will owe for the year. Simply subtract the total tax withheld from your paycheck and your estimated tax payments from the amount of tax you owe. Before estimating your tax liability, be sure to reduce your income by all exemptions and deductions you anticipate claiming. You can then estimate the tax you owe by using the tax tables in the instructions to your tax return.
You can also use TurboTax to find out how much you’ll owe, or use our TaxCaster calculator to get an estimate. Step 2: Download Form 4868Completing Form 4868 allows you to obtain the extension to file your return. You can access a copy of the form on the TurboTax website and fill it out in a matter of minutes. If you make an estimated tax payment with a credit or debit card by April 15 (or extended date due to a holiday or weekend), your extension is granted without having to file Form 4868. Step 3: Complete Form 4868The application for an automatic extension of time requires minimal information. All you need to include is your name, address and Social Security number. If you're not making an estimated tax payment by credit or debit card, then you can include a check made out to the U.S. Treasury. Step 4: Mail the formMail the Form 4868 to the appropriate IRS address for your geographic area listed in the instructions. The most important step is to ensure you mail the form by the original due date of your tax return. Using TurboTax Easy Extension to file a tax extensionTurboTax EasyExtension is a simple, online tool that allows you to file a tax extension in minutes. Try it here. Heads up - filing Form 4868 only provides you with an extension of time to file. You must still pay 100% of the tax you owe by the original filing deadline to avoid interest and late-payment penalties. Remember, with TurboTax, we'll ask you simple questions about your life and help you fill out all the right tax forms. With TurboTax you can be confident your taxes are done right, from simple to complex tax returns, no matter what your situation. All you need to know is yourselfAnswer simple questions about your life and TurboTax Free Edition will take care of the rest. For simple tax returns
only Real tax experts on demand with TurboTax Live BasicGet unlimited advice and an expert final review. Done right, guaranteed. For simple tax returns only
The above article is intended to provide generalized financial information designed to educate a broad segment of the public; it does not give personalized tax, investment, legal, or other business and professional advice. Before taking any action, you should always seek the assistance of a professional who knows your particular situation for advice on taxes, your investments, the law, or any other business and professional matters that affect you and/or your business. Can I file extension electronically with TurboTax?Using TurboTax Easy Extension, you can: E-file your federal extension. Make a payment of any tax due directly from your checking or savings account. Print a PDF copy of your e-filed extension.
Can you file extension electronically?E-file Your Extension Form for Free
Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can use Free File to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension. Filing this form gives you until October 15 to file a return.
What is the file extension for a TurboTax file?TurboTax data files normally have the file extension . TAX (followed by the year), and they are typically stored in one of the following locations.
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