Need more time to file?
Calculate your estimated tax, then file Form 4868 for an automatic 6-month extension to October 15, 2026.
Step 1: Estimate what you owe
An extension gives you more time to file, but NOT more time to pay. Estimate your balance due so you can pay it by April 15 and avoid penalties.
Your Estimated Tax Summary
These results are estimates for informational purposes only. Verify all figures with a tax professional before filing or making payments.
Step 2: File Form 4868
You have two options — both give you until October 15, 2026 to file your return.
Option A: IRS Free File (recommended)
- Go to IRS.gov/freefile — the IRS partners with tax software companies to offer free electronic filing of Form 4868.
- Select a Free File partner — most have income limits, but Form 4868 filing is free regardless of income through several partners.
- Fill out Form 4868 electronically — you'll need your SSN, estimated total tax, and payment info (if any).
- Submit and pay any estimated balance — you'll get instant confirmation. If you owe, pay electronically to avoid penalties.
Option B: IRS Direct Pay
- Go to IRS.gov/directpay — select "Extension" as the reason for payment.
- Making a payment automatically files your extension — no separate Form 4868 needed if you pay electronically and select "Extension."
- Save your confirmation number — this is your proof of extension filing.
Option C: Mail Form 4868
- Download Form 4868 from IRS.gov — fill it out by hand or use tax software to generate it.
- Mail to the IRS service center for your state — check the Form 4868 instructions for the correct address. Must be postmarked by April 15.
- Attach a check if you owe — make payable to "United States Treasury" with your SSN and "2025 Form 4868" on the memo line.
Important things to know
An extension to file is NOT an extension to pay. If you owe taxes, you're expected to estimate and pay by April 15. The extension only gives you more time to complete your return.
Late-filing penalty: 5% of unpaid taxes per month, up to 25%. This is waived with a valid extension.
Late-payment penalty: 0.5% of unpaid taxes per month. This applies even with an extension if you don't pay by April 15.
Interest: Currently ~8% annually on unpaid balances, compounded daily. This cannot be waived.
Safe harbor: If you've paid at least 90% of your current-year tax (or 100% of last year's tax, 110% if AGI > $150K), you won't owe penalties even if your final return shows a balance due.