TAX DEADLINE APPROACHING. NEED TO FILE AN EXTENSION?

If you need more time to file your return, you can get an automatic six-month extension of time to file from the IRS.

To get an extension, file form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. Your extension must be postmarked by the April 17th deadline.

An extension will give you extra time to get your paperwork to the IRS, and you avoid late-filing penalties by filing an extension. But it does not extend the time you have to pay any tax due. You still must pay your tax by the April 17th deadline, or you will owe interest on any amount not paid by the deadline, plus you may owe late payment penalties.