How to File a Tax Extension (Without Stressing Out)

🧾 How to File a Tax Extension (Without Stressing Out)

By Scott Holt, CPA
ScottHoltCPA.com

Let’s face it — tax season can sneak up on the best of us. Whether you’re waiting on paperwork, need more time to organize deductions, or life just got busy, the IRS gives you a solid option: a tax filing extension.

But don’t confuse it with skipping out — here’s what a tax extension really is, and how to file it the right way.
🤔 What Is a Tax Extension?

A tax filing extension gives you an extra 6 months to file your return. For most individuals and businesses, that pushes the due date from April 15 to October 15.

    Important: It only extends the time to file, not the time to pay.

If you expect to owe taxes, you’ll still need to estimate and pay by the April deadline to avoid penalties and interest.
📝 How to File a Tax Extension
✅ Option 1: File Form 4868 Electronically

    Use tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or FreeTaxUSA

    Or let your CPA (🙋‍♂️ that’s me) handle it for you

    It’s quick, easy, and automatically approved

✅ Option 2: Use IRS Free File

The IRS offers Free File for everyone — even if you're not filing a full return yet.
👉 File for Free on IRS.gov
✅ Option 3: Mail Form 4868

Prefer paper?

    Download and complete Form 4868 (PDF)

    Mail it in by April 15 (or the IRS deadline for that year)

🕓 Pro Tip: Make sure it’s postmarked by the deadline to be accepted.
💰 Do I Still Need to Pay?

Yes — if you owe taxes, you must pay your estimated amount by the original due date.

If you don’t:

    You’ll likely pay a 0.5% late payment penalty each month

    Plus interest on the unpaid tax

But by filing an extension, you avoid the late filing penalty, which is much higher.
📌 After You File the Extension

    You now have until October 15 to file your tax return

    You can still amend your return later if needed

    If you’re due a refund, there’s no penalty — but you won’t get your money until you file

🚀 Final Thought from Scott

Filing a tax extension is not a failure — it’s a smart move when you need more time to file correctly.
Just be sure to file the extension, estimate your payment, and don’t ignore it.
💼 Need Help Filing?

I'm here to help — whether you want to file the extension, estimate how much you owe, or just get your taxes done right.

📧 Email: scott@scottholtcpa.com
🌐 Visit: ScottHoltCPA.com

Let’s get your extension filed — stress-free and on time.
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