Deadline for Filing Income Tax Returns That Have Received Extensions: What To Know

Filing your taxes, as you already know, can sometimes be stressful. However, it is another case entirely if you file for an income tax extension.

Just so you know, this is a smart move if you need more time to file. However, you need to remember that this extension only gives you a few extra months.

With this extra time, you already have enough time to prepare all of your documents and get ready before your new deadline. Try not to miss this one again. 

Keep reading this article to learn about income tax extension and how it works. Also, learn the deadline for filing income tax returns that have received extensions and what to do.

What Does Income Tax Extension Mean?

An income tax, on the one hand, is the portion of your earnings that the government takes to help keep the country running. They are usually paid by workers or self-employed individuals, which goes toward funding public services and obligations. 

On the other hand, think of a tax extension as a grace period, which means extra time to get your documents together. This is, of course, if you're not ready by the usual April deadline. With this extra time, you now have until October to file for it on time. This is usually if you have issues gathering your documents, you're handling a complicated situation, or you need more time.

But here's the thing: An income tax only gives you more time, not extra, to pay. If you owe in this situation, make sure you still have it as a point of duty to pay. Once you miss this, you'll likely face interest or penalties. That's why it's smart to estimate and pay what you owe ahead, even if your forms aren't ready yet. The extension just helps you skip the bigger penalty for not filing at all.

How Does It Work?

Applying for a tax extension could apply to different situations. You may file an extension if you owe taxes or wish to receive a refund. Therefore, you must submit your request for an extension before the deadline in order to avoid penalties for late filing. Estimate your total tax bill and ensure you pay at least 90% of that on time. It helps to avoid extra charges. 

You can use Form 1040-ES to do so. You can also estimate that with the help of a tax aid tool. In situations where you may not be capable of paying in full, try to pay what you can. Then, you can go ahead and set up a payment plan with the IRS to pay the remaining amount as time goes on.

However, if you're expecting a refund, there’s no need to stress. The IRS won't fine you for filing late if you’re owed. Still, filing an extension is a good backup. This is because if it turns out you actually owe taxes, the extension protects you from late filing penalties.

Deadline for Filing Income Tax Returns That Have Received Extensions

If you filed a request to extend the filing for your 2024 taxes, it's only normal that you're given a deadline. You must, however, submit it on October 15, 2025. Just make sure that the extension was filed on or before April 15, 2025. Anything sent after this without approval is considered late. This leads to a situation where you pay penalties or have added interest. 

Are you living overseas? Well, U.S. citizens living abroad have their own deadlines. You have until June 15. This then gives you two extra months. However, if this date falls on a holiday or a weekend, the due date automatically becomes the next business day. Still, tax payments were due on April 15, so missing that could still lead to extra charges.

Wondering if there are any penalties for filing an income tax extension? There are none. In fact, filing one can save you from a late filing penalty. What is important is that you are able to meet the final date. However, you need to pay what you owe to avoid penalties and interest.

How to File a Tax Income Extension

If you're running behind on your taxes, you don't actually need to think too much about it. It's really simple to file an income tax extension, and the easiest way is to file a Form 4868. You can do this by either using the IRS site, tax software or through your tax advisor. It's fast and easy. You'll get confirmation immediately it's accepted.

Another option is to pay your taxes online through IRS Direct Pay or other electronic payment systems by April 15. So, as long as you note that the payment is for an extension, you're covered. This way, you cover your estimated tax bill and get an automatic extension. With this, there won’t be a need to send in any extra forms, like the Form 4868.

You can also mail a paper Form 4868, but just make sure you do this before the deadline. Note that this mailing method usually takes longer. So, any delay could put you at risk of missing the deadline.

Also, note that your state tax rules can be different, so double-check if your state requires a separate extension request. Also, check if it follows the federal one automatically instead.

Other Ways to File for a Tax Extension

If you're not filing the usual way, there are still a few ways to get an income tax extension:

• IRS Free File: You can also use the IRS Free File service to file for your extension. Use it to prepare and file for free, you just need to go over to the IRS site to do so. Then, you can submit your extension at no charge at all.

• Through a Tax Pro: If you are working with an accountant or tax preparer, they can also handle your extension for you. You just need to ask your tax professional, and they'll take care of it.

Filing a State Extension

Filing a state income tax extension depends on where you live. Some states automatically give you an extension if your federal extension is approved. Other states may require you to submit a separate form. For example, Illinois lets you file your state return until mid-October.

To prevent confusion or missed deadlines, visit your state's tax authority website. They'll have the most accurate info on what forms you need to submit if required. They'll also tell you how to submit them and when everything's due.

What To Do When an Income Tax Extension Is Rejected

Sometimes, a tax extension request can still get rejected. The IRS might deny your request even if you submitted it before the deadline. In any case, if this happens, they'll send you a notification explaining why it didn't get approved.

Most of the time, it's not something serious. It can be because of common reasons, for instance, small mistakes like typos in your name. It can also be that your numbers don't match your records, or you're still using an old address. All these mistakes wouldn't add up to what the IRS already has on file.

However, this doesn't mean that it's over. The IRS typically gives you around five business days to fix any issues and resubmit your request. You need to act fast and correct the error so that your extension can still be approved. It is always a good idea to double-check your information before filing to avoid these mistakes. 

Final Thoughts

Filing a tax extension is really a good option if you need extra time to prepare an accurate return. This is regardless of what happened that you weren't able to, or what the situation is. You get to have enough time till October, which, of course, should be more than enough. You really shouldn't rush through the process. Take your time. Extensions are supposed to help you in filing an accurate income tax return, so it is a good idea to use the extra months wisely. 

While an income tax extension gives you enough time to file, you still need your accurate pay stubs. Our pay stub generator generates professional pay stubs, which are necessary for having a stress-free filing process. Try our tool today!