How do I file a tax extension for 2025, and does it delay my payment deadline too?

Filing a tax extension is straightforward — but a critical misunderstanding trips up many people: an extension gives you more time to FILE, not more time to PAY.

How to get a 6-month extension:

File Form 4868 (Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File) by April 15, 2025 (the regular due date). This pushes your filing deadline to October 15, 2025. No explanation or approval needed — it's automatic.

Three ways to file Form 4868:

• E-file through IRS Free File or any tax software — fastest and free
• Pay online and select 'extension' as the reason — the payment itself counts as filing the extension; no separate form needed
• Mail paper Form 4868 — must be postmarked by April 15

The payment deadline does NOT move:

Even with an extension, you still owe taxes by April 15. If you have a balance due and don't pay by then:

• Failure-to-pay penalty: 0.5% of unpaid taxes per month (up to 25%)
• Interest: Currently ~7% annually on unpaid balances

What to do if you can't pay: Pay as much as you can by April 15 to minimize penalties and interest. The IRS offers payment plans (installment agreements) if you need time to pay the rest — you can set one up at IRS.gov in minutes.

Who doesn't need to file Form 4868:

• U.S. citizens living abroad automatically get 2 extra months (to June 15) — but interest still runs from April 15
• Active military in combat zones get automatic extensions

State extensions: Federal Form 4868 does NOT extend your state filing deadline. Most states have their own extension process.