How to file a tax extension and avoid IRS penalties

(NewsNation) — The federal tax filing deadline is April 15, but taxpayers who need more time can avoid penalties by requesting an extension.

It’s a straightforward process that gives filers an extra six months, until October 15, to submit their return without penalties, as long as the extension is filed by the end of April 15.

But an extension only delays the paperwork, not the bill: Any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.

As of April 3, the IRS had received about 99.8 million individual returns — roughly 60 percent of the 164 million it expects by the Wednesday’s deadline..

How to get an extension to file your tax return

There are three ways for individuals to get an extension, according to the IRS:

Pay online and check the box: Taxpayers can pay what they owe online and select “extension” as the reason for payment — no additional forms required. They’ll receive a confirmation number for the extension.

Use IRS Free File: Taxpayers can request an automatic extension through the program for free, regardless of income or filing eligibility.

Request an extension by mail or online: File Form 4868 to request an automatic extension by mail. It can also be submitted electronically through an IRS e-file partner or a tax professional. Taxpayers must estimate how much tax they owe for the year on the extension form, subtract the taxes already paid, and pay the balance owed.

Some taxpayers may qualify for additional time to file and pay without requesting an extension, including U.S. citizens living abroad and members of the military serving overseas, and those in certain disaster areas.

What happens if you miss the tax filing deadline?

Taxpayers who don’t file a return or request an extension by the April 15 deadline could face a failure to file penalty. The IRS will send a notice if that penalty applies.

The penalty is typically 5 percent of the unpaid tax for each month or partial month the return is late, up to a maximum of 25 percent.

If a return is more than 60 days late, a minimum penalty may apply — typically a set dollar amount or 100 percent of the unpaid tax, whichever is less.

The IRS also charges interest, which continues to accrue on unpaid taxes and penalties until the balance is fully paid.

Taxpayers who don’t file or pay by the due date could face both failure to file and failure to pay penalties.

What if I can’t pay the taxes I owe by the deadline?

The IRS offers payment plans for those who can’t pay by the due date, but any unpaid balance is still subject to interest and a monthly late payment penalty.

Still, it’s worth paying what you can and applying for a payment plan, since doing so could reduce future penalties, according to the IRS.

Payment plans allow those who qualify to pay off their balance over time. The IRS has a short-term option for balances paid within 180 days, as well as a long-term plan that allows monthly installments.

Tax filers can apply for a payment plan online, or by phone or by mail using Form 9465. Those who apply online are typically notified immediately whether their request is approved.

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