Details on when and how to file an extension

This year, your tax return is due on April 18, 2023. But if you need more time to submit your tax return, you can request a tax extension by submitting IRS form 4868 online or through the mail. 

Filing an extension gives you a six month extension and your new tax return due date will be October 18, 2023.

You can file a tax extension during tax season — from January 23, 2023 through April 18, 2023, but you must submit form 4868 by April 18, 2023.

While a tax extension gives you more time to file your tax return, it does not give you more time to pay your tax bill if you owe the IRS money. If you think you’ll owe money, you should estimate your tax liability and pay what you expect to owe before April 18, 2023.

If you do file an extension and do not pay the full amount you owe in taxes by April 18, you may receive a late payment penalty. You’ll also incur interest on the balance you owe for each month your payment is late. In addition, if you forget to file an extension and you file your taxes late, you may receive a late filing penalty.

When you do file your tax return, be sure to include the amount of taxes you’ve already paid in the payment section of your form.