IRS Form 4868 is used by taxpayers to request an automatic six-month extension to file their U.S. Individual Income Tax Return (Form 1040). The extension applies to the filing of the tax return, not the payment of taxes. Taxpayers must still estimate and pay any taxes owed by the original filing deadline (usually April 15) to avoid penalties and interest.
Form 4868 is easy to complete and can be submitted electronically or by mail. By filing this form, taxpayers can extend their filing deadline to October 15, giving them extra time to prepare and submit their return. However, if taxes are not paid by the original deadline, the taxpayer may still be subject to the Failure to Pay Penalty and interest charges.
The extension is particularly useful for taxpayers who are missing documentation, need more time to calculate deductions or credits, or are facing financial or personal challenges that prevent timely filing. Form 4868 ensures that taxpayers can avoid the Failure to File Penalty while they gather the necessary information to complete their return.