The short answer
An extension gives you six more months to file, to October 15. It does not give you more time to pay. Estimate what you owe and pay it by April 15 to avoid most penalties and interest.
Last reviewed: October 2026
How to get one
- Pay and check the box. If you make a payment through IRS Direct Pay, your IRS online account or a debit or credit card and mark it as an extension payment, you don't need a separate form.
- File Form 4868. You can e-file it for free through IRS Free File or tax software, or mail it by April 15.
- Ask your preparer. We can file it for you.
What happens if you extend but don't pay
You avoid the large late-filing penalty, but the late-payment penalty and interest still apply to whatever you owe after April 15. If you can't pay it all, see I can't pay what I owe.
When an extension makes sense
- You're waiting on a K-1 or corrected form
- You're missing records and don't want to guess
- Something big happened, like a storm, illness or a move
Official source: IRS: Get an extension to file.
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Disclaimer: This page is general information, not tax advice. Every situation is different, and tax rules change. Reading this page doesn't make you a client.