Tax day has arrived, and millions of Americans are making final decisions about their tax returns. For those unable to complete their filing today, the IRS offers three specific methods to request an extension that must be used by the end of today to secure additional time without facing late filing penalties.
Taxpayers who successfully request an extension by the end of today will automatically receive six additional months to complete their paperwork, extending their filing deadline to October 15, 2025. This extension applies only to the submission of tax forms and supporting documentation, not to payment obligations. Any taxes owed must still be paid today to avoid penalties and accumulating interest charges.
Act today using three straightforward extension methods
The first option available through the end of today involves using the IRS Free File program accessible through the official IRS website. This digital option remains available to all individual taxpayers regardless of income level and comes without charge. When using this method on April 15, taxpayers must provide an estimate of their tax liability and complete the extension request before midnight in their time zone.
The second approach combines extension requests with payment processing through various online payment platforms. When making an electronic payment today, taxpayers should select extension as their reason for payment. The system immediately generates a confirmation number serving as proof of the extension request, eliminating the need for additional forms or paperwork.
For those preferring paper submissions, the third option involves submitting Form 4868 by mail, though this method requires a postmark dated April 15 to be considered timely. This form, titled Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, requires taxpayers to estimate their total tax liability, subtract any taxes already paid, and include payment for any remaining balance when submitting the form today.
Special provisions automatically extend deadlines for certain groups
Some taxpayer groups receive automatic extensions without needing to submit formal requests by today’s deadline. These special provisions primarily benefit military personnel and Americans living abroad.
Military members serving outside the United States and Puerto Rico automatically receive a two-month extension, moving their filing deadline to June 16 this year. This accommodation recognizes the unique challenges faced by service members stationed overseas, though it does not alter today’s April 15 deadline for tax payments, which must still be made by the end of the day to avoid interest charges.
Those serving in designated combat zones receive more significant filing accommodations. These taxpayers have at least 180 days after departing the combat zone to file their returns and pay any taxes due, acknowledging the extraordinary circumstances of military deployment in conflict areas.
International residents and disaster victims receive additional time
U.S. citizens and resident aliens living and working outside the United States and Puerto Rico also benefit from an automatic two-month extension. Like military members stationed overseas, these taxpayers have until June 16 to file their returns this year, though they must still make tax payments by the end of today to avoid interest charges.
Residents of federally declared disaster areas receive comprehensive extension benefits. These taxpayers often qualify for automatic extensions for both filing and payment obligations without needing to submit any request forms today. The IRS maintains updated information on tax relief for disaster situations on their official website, providing guidance for affected taxpayers.
Payment obligations remain due today despite filing extensions
The IRS emphasizes that today’s deadline for tax payments remains unchanged regardless of filing extensions. Taxpayers who owe taxes must submit payment by the end of April 15 even if they file for an extension, or they will face interest charges and potential penalties on the unpaid amount.
To facilitate last-minute payments, the IRS offers several electronic payment options available throughout today. Taxpayers can make payments through their individual IRS Online Account, using IRS Direct Pay, or through the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System. Additional options include payments via credit cards, debit cards, or digital wallets, providing flexibility for meeting today’s payment obligations.
Tax professionals note that accurately estimating tax liability when requesting an extension today is crucial. Underpayment can result in penalties and interest, while overpayment unnecessarily restricts funds that could be used elsewhere. For those uncertain about their tax situation, many tax preparation offices have extended their hours today to accommodate last-minute consultations.
Last-minute extension requests require immediate action
With today marking the final opportunity for timely extension requests, tax experts emphasize that technical issues, payment processing delays, or other complications could potentially cause problems for those waiting until the final hours. Online systems may experience increased traffic as millions of taxpayers access them simultaneously today.
For taxpayers with complex situations, particularly those affected by recent tax law changes, an extension provides valuable additional time to ensure accuracy and compliance. However, this benefit must be balanced against the requirement to estimate and pay taxes due by the end of today, which requires substantial preparation regardless of the extension status.
As the April 15 deadline concludes, the IRS continues to emphasize that filing for an extension today is a straightforward process designed to accommodate taxpayers who need additional time, while maintaining the integrity of the tax collection system through consistent payment deadlines that remain in effect even when filing extensions are granted.
