Form 4868 is an extension form filed by individual tax filers who need an extension of time to complete and file their personal income tax return to the IRS.

Here we will learn more about IRS extension Form 4868, when it is due, and how and where to file it.

1. What is Form 4868?
2. When is the deadline for filing Form 4868?
3. How to file Form 4868 for the 2024 tax year?
4. Penalties for late filing form 4868

What is Form 4868?

IRS Form 4868 is the application for an automatic extension of time for individual taxpayers and residents of the United States to file their federal income tax returns.

By filing extension Form 4868 with the IRS, they can get up to 6 months of extension and an additional 4 months (if they’re “out of the country” and a U.S. citizen or resident).

The following federal income tax returns can be extended by filing extension form 4868:

• Form 1040: U.S. Individual Tax Return
• Form 1040-SR: U.S. Tax Return for Seniors
• Form 1040-NR: U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return
• Form 1040-PR: Self-Employment Tax Return-Puerto Rico
• Form 1040-SS: U.S. Self-Employment Tax Return

When is the deadline for filing Form 4868?

As an individual taxpayer, it is important to know the Form 4868 deadline before filing to avoid any late filing penalties. Individual taxpayers who want an extension must file Form 4868 on or before the due date for the actual tax return to be filed.

The deadline for filing Form 4868 for the 2024 tax year is April 15, 2025.

Filing Form 4868 for the 2024 tax year will extend the filing deadline to October 15, 2025.

Note: Filing Form 4868 will only extend the deadline for filing your federal income tax return. You still need to pay any tax dues before the deadline.

How to file Form 4868 for the 2024 tax year?

Electronic filing or E-filing

E-filing is the easiest and best way to file and transmit your extension Form 4868 with the IRS. Even the IRS recommends electronic filing as the process is quick, and you will get the instant status of your return. You can choose an IRS-authorized e-file service provider to transmit your extension form.

TaxZerone is an IRS-authorized e-file provider that allows you to file extension forms and transmit them to the IRS error-free! We guide you in every step to ensure a smooth filing process!

E-file Extension Form 4868 with us and transmit your return to the IRS in a few minutes!

Penalties for late filing form 4868

If filing an extension Form 4868, you must be aware of the penalty rate for late filing of returns and failure to pay the tax dues within the deadline. Below are the penalty rates for Form 4868.

Failure to pay taxes and file tax returns	Filed tax return or extension form but failed to pay taxes
5% of the tax due per month or part of a month the return is late. The maximum penalty is 25%. If your return is not filed for more than 60 days after the deadline, there will be a minimum penalty of $450.	0.5% of any tax due (other than estimated tax) for each month or part of a month the tax is unpaid. The maximum penalty is 25%.

To avoid Form 4868 late filing penalties and interest, please do the following:

• File your federal income tax return and pay your tax due by the due date.
• Apply for extension Form 4868 and file it on or before the due date.
• Report the correct tax liability for the tax year.

E-File Form 4868 with TaxZerone

Individual Taxpayers can e-file extension Form 4868 easily with TaxZerone in 3 simple steps.

Step 1: Select the tax year and enter the required information.

Step 2: Calculate the balance due by providing the estimated total tax liability for the tax year.

Step 3: Transmit the return to the IRS.

TaxZerone makes it easy to file IRS Form 4868 and get a six-month extension. With its simple interface and helpful support, taxpayers can quickly extend their filing deadline, taking the stress out of tax season. Choosing TaxZerone means staying compliant and feeling confident in managing your taxes hassle-free.

Also read: Form 4868 Instructions