An automatic filing extension can provide additional months to submit a federal return. Interest and possible penalties can still begin on unpaid tax after the regular deadline.
Estimate before extending
Use available income and withholding records to calculate and pay a reasonable amount by the original due date.
File even if payment is difficult
Payment plans and other options generally begin with knowing the actual balance. Avoiding the return does not solve the debt.
State rules can differ
A federal extension does not automatically answer every state filing and payment requirement.
Sources
- Internal Revenue Service, Extension of Time to File Your Tax Return.