What Are the Tax Extension Deadlines and How Do I Know If They Apply to Me?
Tax season can be stressful, especially if you’re still gathering documents or waiting on important financial information. Fortunately, the IRS offers an option to extend your filing deadline. But before you assume an extension is right for you, it’s important to understand what tax extensions are, when the deadlines fall, and whether they actually apply to your situation.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, answer common questions, and help you figure out your next steps.
What Is a Tax Extension?
A tax extension is a formal request to the IRS to push back the deadline for filing your federal tax return. It does not give you extra time to pay your taxes — it only grants more time to submit your paperwork.
When approved, an extension typically moves the due date for your return from April 15 to October 15 (or the next business day if that falls on a weekend or holiday).
Why Would Someone File a Tax Extension?
Tax extensions can be helpful if:
You haven’t received all necessary forms (e.g., K-1s, 1099s, corrected W-2s).
You experienced life events that delayed your ability to file (illness, family emergencies, etc.).
Your tax situation is complex, and you or your accountant need more time to prepare an accurate return.
You want to avoid filing a rushed return that could result in errors or missed deductions.
Key Tax Extension Deadlines
Here’s a quick breakdown for 2025 tax season (covering 2024 income):
April 15, 2025 – Regular tax filing deadline for most taxpayers. This is also the deadline to request a federal tax extension using Form 4868.
October 15, 2025 – Extended filing deadline if your extension request is approved.
Payment Deadline: Taxes owed must still be paid by April 15, 2025 to avoid penalties and interest.
Special Extension Rules for Certain Taxpayers
Some taxpayers automatically get extra time without filing Form 4868:
Military members serving in combat zones get at least 180 extra days after leaving the zone.
Taxpayers living outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico on the filing deadline get an automatic two-month extension (to June 16, 2025 for this year) to file and pay.
Those affected by federally declared disasters may qualify for special IRS relief with extended deadlines.
How to Request a Tax Extension
You can request a tax extension in three main ways:
Electronically: Use IRS e-file through tax software or a tax professional.
By Mail: Submit Form 4868 to the IRS by the original due date.
Through Payment: Make a payment using IRS Direct Pay or the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) and select “extension” as the reason.
Once filed, the IRS will not send a confirmation letter — but if you e-file, you’ll get a digital confirmation.
Penalties and Interest to Watch Out For
Even with an extension, penalties can still apply if:
You fail to pay at least 90% of your total tax liability by April 15.
You underestimate your taxes and owe more when filing in October.
Interest will accrue on unpaid balances starting April 16 until the bill is fully paid.
Pros and Cons of Filing a Tax Extension
Pros:
More time to gather documents and avoid mistakes.
Reduced risk of an IRS audit triggered by rushed or inaccurate filings.
Ability to file after certain forms are corrected or delayed.
Cons:
Does not give more time to pay — only to file.
You might face interest and penalties if you don’t estimate and pay enough by April.
Extending your return can delay refunds.
Q&A: Tax Extensions Explained
Q: Does filing an extension increase my chance of an IRS audit?
A: No. Filing an extension does not increase audit risk. The IRS reviews returns based on content and patterns, not timing.
Q: If I’m due a refund, do I still need to file an extension?
A: Technically, no penalties apply if you don’t owe taxes, but you still must file within three years to claim your refund. An extension can keep you on track.
Q: Can I extend my state taxes too?
A: Possibly. Many states accept the federal extension, but some require a separate request. Check with your state’s tax agency.
Q: What happens if I miss the October deadline after an extension?
A: The IRS will consider your return late, and you could face failure-to-file penalties (generally 5% per month of unpaid taxes, up to 25%).
Q: Can I cancel my extension once I file?
A: There’s nothing to cancel. Once you file your return before October, the extension period simply ends.
How to Know if a Tax Extension Applies to You
Ask yourself these questions:
Will you have all necessary documents by April 15?
Are you confident your return will be accurate without extra time?
Do you expect to owe money to the IRS? If yes, can you pay by April 15?
Have you experienced personal or professional delays affecting your tax preparation?
If you answered “no” to the first two or “yes” to the last two, a tax extension might be the right move.
Call to Action
If you’re unsure whether a tax extension applies to you — or if you need help filing one correctly — contact us at Brecken Business Solutions. We can help you:
Determine if an extension is the best option for your situation.
Estimate and pay taxes to avoid penalties.
Prepare and file your return accurately, whether in April or October.
