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Extensions of Time To File
Larry Denton
You may be able to get an extension of time to file your return. Special rules apply for those who were: outside the United States, or serving in a combat zone.
If you cannot file your 2005 return by the due date, you may be able to get an automatic 6-month extension of time to file. For example, if your return is due on April 17, 2006, you will have until October 16, 2006, to file. However, if you do not pay the tax due by the regular due date (generally, April 15), you will owe interest. You may also be charged penalties.
You can get the automatic extension by: Using IRS e-file (electronic filing), or filing a paper form.
There are two ways you can use e-file to get an extension of time to file. Complete Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, to use as a worksheet. If you think you may owe tax when you file your return, use Part II of the form to estimate your balance due. If you e-file Form 4868 to the IRS, do not also send a paper Form 4868.
E-file using your personal computer or a tax professional. You can use a tax software package with your personal computer or a tax professional to file Form 4868 electronically. You will need to provide certain information from your tax return for 2004.
E-file and pay by credit card. You can get an extension by paying part or all of your estimate of tax due by using a credit card. You can do this by phone or over the Internet. You do not file Form 4868.
Filing a paper Form 4868. You can get an extension of time to file by filing a paper Form 4868. Mail it to the address shown in the form instructions. If you want to make a payment with the form, make your check or money order payable to the “United States Treasury.” Write your SSN, daytime phone number, and “2005 Form 4868” on your check or money order.
You must request the automatic extension by the due date for your return. You can file your return any time before the 6-month extension period ends. When you do file your return, enter any payment you made related to the extension of time to file on Form 1040, line 69. If you file Form 1040EZ or Form 1040A, include that payment in your total payments on Form 1040EZ, line 9, or Form 1040A, line 43. Also enter “Form 4868” and the amount paid in the space to the left of line 9 or line 43.
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