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Need More Time to File? Here’s How to Request a Tax Extension
If you have yet to file and expect to owe taxes, filing an extension is crucial. It’s a common practice, with the IRS processing millions of extension requests each year. The key is to ensure you pay your tax bill on time to avoid penalties for late payment. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about tax extensions and how you can use our free tax filing software to request an extension online and get the extra time you need to file.
What is a Tax Extension?
A tax extension provides you with additional time to file your tax return, typically extending the deadline by six months after the tax day. However, it’s critical to note that while an extension gives you more time to file, it doesn’t grant an extension for paying any taxes you owe. You’ll need to pay any owed taxes when you file the extension to avoid penalties.
Who Should File a Tax Extension?
If you can’t meet the filing deadline and expect to owe taxes to the IRS, filing an extension to get your federal return filed is recommended. However, if you’re due a refund, there’s no need to file an extension; you have three years from the filing due date to submit your return and claim your refund.
In California, you receive an automatic six-month extension to file your state tax return; this means you do not have to take any action to request an extension. However, you must file by the California state deadline — October 15, 2024 — to avoid a late filing penalty. It’s important to note that while this extension grants you more time to file, it does not extend the deadline for paying any tax owed. You must still pay your tax bill by the original deadline to avoid penalties.
Special Circumstances for Extensions
Certain individuals automatically receive extra time to file their tax returns. These include:
- Military personnel serving in a combat zone
- U.S. citizens living abroad
- Tax filers residing in federally declared disaster areas (If you live in San Diego County, read more here)
How to File a Tax Extension at No Cost Using Our Free Tax Filing Software
An extension to file a federal return can be filed free of cost by mail, electronically through self-filing software, or via a tax preparer. The method you use to file an extension does not restrict you from using a different method to file your taxes. For example, if you use our free self-filing software to request an extension, you can choose a different method to file your taxes when the time comes. See below to request an extension using our free self-filing software options.
Via TaxSlayer:
1. Log in to your TaxSlayer account. If you don’t have one, you can create an account.
2. Start or continue your federal return.
3. After entering your basic information, click on the navigation bar on the left-hand corner.
4. Click on Federal Extension.
Via CashApp:
1. Log in to your CashApp account. If you don’t have one, you can create an account.
2. Enter your basic information
3. Navigate to the menu section
4. Select Filing an Extension
Next Steps After Filing a Tax Extension
- Pay your tax bill: Pay as much as you can when you request the extension. If you’re unable to cover your entire tax liability, the IRS offers payment plans to qualified taxpayers. Learn more about payment options here.
- Don’t wait to file: Although you have an extension to file your return, gather all your tax documents and file your return as soon as possible to avoid any potential last-minute issues.