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IRS Filing Extension: How to Get Until October 15 to File

2 min read

In this guide
  1. What does an extension actually do?
  2. How do you request one?
  3. What if you live outside the U.S.?
  4. What about disasters?
  5. What if you can’t pay?
  6. Common mistakes
  7. FAQ
    1. Do nonresident filers get the same extension?
    2. Will I get a confirmation?
  8. Key takeaways
  9. Related guides
  10. Sources

Quick answer: An IRS filing extension gives you until October 15 to file, but you must still pay any tax owed by the April due date. You can request it by paying online and ticking the extension box, by using IRS Free File, or by mailing Form 4868.

What does an extension actually do?

If you need more time to file, request an extension by the April due date. It lets you file by October 15 without a late-filing penalty. It is an extension to file, not to pay. Estimate what you owe, subtract tax already paid, and pay that amount by April.

How do you request one?

  1. Pay online and check the box. Use an online payment option and tick that you’re paying as part of an extension. No separate form is needed, and you get a confirmation number.
  2. Use IRS Free File. There is no income limit for requesting an extension.
  3. File Form 4868 by mail, online through an IRS e-file partner, or through a tax professional.

What if you live outside the U.S.?

A U.S. citizen or resident alien who is living outside the country on the regular due date may get an automatic 2-month extension. The IRS also lists Form 2350 for citizens and resident aliens abroad who expect to qualify for special tax treatment, which can matter for the foreign earned income exclusion and our expat tax guide.

What about disasters?

If a disaster affected you, you may have more time to file.

What if you can’t pay?

File on time and pay what you can. Unpaid balances accrue interest and a monthly late-payment penalty, and there is a separate penalty for not filing. See our guide to paying the IRS.

Common mistakes

  • Believing the extension also delays payment.
  • Missing the April deadline for requesting it.
  • Not estimating the balance due on the form.

FAQ

Do nonresident filers get the same extension?

The IRS extension page reviewed here describes the general October 15 extension. Check the Form 1040-NR instructions for nonresident-specific dates.

Will I get a confirmation?

Paying online with the extension box gives a confirmation number.

Key takeaways

  • Extension = more time to file, not to pay.
  • Three ways to request it, all by the April deadline.
  • Extra time may apply if you live abroad.

Last updated: October 2026. General information, not tax advice.

Sources

  • Internal Revenue Service: Get an extension to file your tax return

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