A tax return extension gives you six more months to file, but you must still pay your taxes on time. Learn about tax return extensions or how to pay your tax bill in installments.
While you will get more time to file your return, an extension does not grant you more time to pay your taxes. To avoid possible penalties, you should estimate and pay your federal taxes by the due date.
- Online using IRS’ Free File program
- When you pay your estimated tax bill
- Using IRS Form 4868
If you feel that you may not be able to pay your tax bill in full by the due date, you may be eligible to pay in installments. Learn more about the IRS’s payment plans and what additional costs and fees you may have to pay.
LAST UPDATED: January 9, 2024
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