What Form 4868 Is For
IRS Form 4868 (2012) lets taxpayers request additional time to file their federal income tax return. It provides an automatic six-month extension, moving the original due date for most filers from April 15, 2013, to October 15, 2013. This form applies to returns such as Forms 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, 1040NR, 1040NR-EZ, 1040-PR, and 1040-SS.
The process is simple—the Internal Revenue Service automatically grants the extension if you submit the form accurately and on time. However, the extension only gives you more time to file, not time to pay taxes owed. Any unpaid tax after the original due date may result in interest or a late payment penalty until the balance is paid.
When You’d Use Form 4868
You may need to file IRS Form 4868 (2012) when you require additional time to file your federal income tax return, but want to avoid a late filing penalty. Below are the most common situations where this form is valid:
- Missing tax documents: You may not have received or located key forms such as a W-2, 1099, or Schedule K-1, which are needed to complete your return accurately.
- Complex tax situation: Self-employed individuals or those with multiple income sources may need extra time to calculate deductions, credits, or estimated tax payments.
- Working with a tax professional: Your preparer might need more time to complete your tax return, and filing Form 4868 ensures you meet the IRS filing requirement.
- Personal or unexpected circumstances: Illness, family emergencies, or travel can make it challenging to complete your return by the original due date.
- Living or serving abroad: Under IRS rules, taxpayers residing outside the United States or members of the military stationed overseas may qualify for extended deadlines.
Important note: Form 4868 only extends the time to file, not the time to pay taxes owed. Estimate and pay any federal taxes due by the original filing deadline to avoid interest or late payment penalties. You can use our IRS forms list to locate federal tax forms and instructions in one place. It provides a straightforward way to review the documents required for your filing.
Key Rules and Details for the 2012 Tax Year
For the 2012 tax year, taxpayers could use IRS Form 4868 to request an automatic tax extension, which moved the filing deadline from April 15, 2013, to October 15, 2013.
- Filing deadline: The form must be submitted by April 15, 2013. If that date fell on a weekend or legal holiday, the deadline automatically moved to the next business day. You can explore our IRS payment plans resource to see how payment agreements work and what to expect.
- Estimated tax required: Taxpayers had to estimate their total 2012 taxes and report any tax paid through withholding or estimated payments.
- Minimum payment rule: To avoid penalties, at least 90% of the total taxes owed had to be paid by the original due date.
- Unpaid balance: Any remaining unpaid amount continued to accrue interest and penalties until fully paid.
- Refunds: Taxpayers expecting a tax refund did not face any risk or penalty for filing an extension.
- Recordkeeping: It was essential to keep tax records for at least three years for verification or reference purposes.
Step-by-Step Filing Process (High Level)
- Step 1—Choose your method: File online with IRS Free File or approved software, make an electronic payment, or mail a paper Form 4868 to the correct IRS address.
- Step 2—Gather Your Details: Ensure you have your name, address, Social Security number, estimated total tax for 2012, and any payments already made (withholding or estimated) ready.
- Step 3—Estimate and pay: Calculate your expected debt and pay as much as possible by the original due date to limit penalties and interest.
- Step 4—Submit correctly: If filing online, follow prompts and save the confirmation. If mailing, use the proper IRS address and send by the deadline via certified mail or an approved delivery service.
- Step 5—Keep records: Save your confirmation number, payment receipt, and tracking information. You will need these when you file your final federal income tax return.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with an automatic tax extension, taxpayers often make minor errors, leading to unnecessary penalties. Here are the most common mistakes—and simple ways to avoid them:
- Assuming the extension covers payment, Form 4868 only extends your time to file, not your time to pay. If you owe tax and miss the April 15 deadline, interest and penalty charges continue until the balance is cleared. Avoid this mistake by submitting an estimated payment along with your extension request.
- Missing the filing deadline: If the deadline falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it is extended to the next business day. Set reminders early to prevent late filing and a minimum penalty.
- Underestimating taxes owed: Failing to estimate your total tax can result in underpayment penalties. Use last year’s return or wage statements for a realistic estimate.
- Failing to confirm IRS receipt: E-file when possible, or mail using certified delivery and write “Form 4868” on your payment.
- Using the wrong form: Partnerships and corporations need different extensions. Verify before filing to avoid rejection.
Taking these steps helps reduce penalties and keeps your tax filing compliant.
What Happens After You File
After submitting IRS Form 4868 (2012), your tax extension is automatically approved—no confirmation letter is mailed. If you e-filed, you’ll receive an electronic acknowledgment. If you mailed your return, keep your certified receipt as proof. Once approved, you have until October 15, 2013, to file your federal income tax return, though you can submit it sooner.
If you owe tax, interest, and penalties will apply to any unpaid balance after April 15. Include any taxes paid on Form 4868 with your return. Keep copies of your payment and confirmation records for your tax records for the current tax year. If you need further help after submitting your return, visit our contact page to address any concerns.
FAQs
Does filing a tax extension delay my tax return?
No, a tax extension only provides additional time to file your return, not to pay any taxes owed. You must still pay the taxes by the original due date to avoid interest and penalties. The final due date is to avoid interest and penalties.
Can I request additional time if I miss the Form 4868 deadline?
No, the IRS only grants one automatic extension per year. If you miss the deadline, you should still file your tax return as soon as possible to reduce any filing penalty and interest.
Will filing a tax extension affect my income tax refund?
Filing an extension doesn’t affect your income tax or refund eligibility. However, you’ll receive your tax refund later since your filing is delayed.
Do I need to pay when I file for a tax extension?
Yes, if you expect to owe tax, you should make a payment when submitting Form 4868. Paying reduces the possibility of penalties and interest on unpaid balances.
Can I e-file my tax return after using Form 4868?
Yes, you can e-file your tax returns at any time before the extended deadline. When completing your return, include any tax paid with your extension.
