The Critical Thing to Know Before Filing a Tax Extension in 2025

As the April 15, 2025, tax deadline approaches, many Americans are considering filing for an extension. However, a crucial point emphasized by tax experts, including those from Stanford University, is that filing an extension does not extend the time to pay any taxes owed. citeturn0search3

Understanding Tax Extensions

A tax extension grants you additional time to file your return, moving the deadline from April 15 to October 15, 2025. However, it does not provide extra time to pay any taxes due. If you owe taxes and fail to pay by April 15, you may incur interest and penalties, even if you've filed for an extension. citeturn0search1

How to File for an Extension

If you need more time to file your taxes, you can request an extension through the following methods:

• IRS Free File: Use the IRS Free File tool to electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension.
   
• Form 4868: Submit Form 4868, "Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return," either electronically or by mail.
   
• Online Payment: When paying your estimated taxes online, you can indicate that the payment is for an extension, which will automatically grant you the filing extension.
   

Special Considerations for Disaster Victims

Taxpayers affected by federally declared disasters may receive automatic extensions for both filing and payment deadlines. For instance, victims of certain 2024 disasters have extended deadlines ranging from May 1 to November 3, 2025, depending on their location and the specific disaster. citeturn0search8

Final Thoughts

While obtaining an extension provides more time to file your tax return, it does not extend the time to pay any taxes owed. To avoid interest and penalties, ensure you pay any estimated taxes by the original April 15 deadline. If you're uncertain about your tax situation, consider consulting a tax professional for personalized advice.

• US Tax Filing Extension 2025
• Tax Tips for Disaster Victims
• Avoid IRS Penalties 2025
• Tax Payment vs Filing Extension
• How to File IRS Form 4868
• 2025 Tax Extension Deadline