Form 4868 Extension Requests Rise for 2025 Returns
As the April tax filing deadline approaches, millions of Americans are requesting extensions to file their federal tax returns. Recent IRS data shows that electronic Form 4868 filings continue to increase as taxpayers electronically file an extension of time through online systems. The growing use of digital tools has made requesting a federal extension faster and more accessible for many filers.
The number of taxpayers requesting a tax return extension has steadily increased in recent filing seasons. For the 2025 tax year, more than 20 million taxpayers submitted Form 4868, formally titled the Application for Extension of Time To File U.S. Income Tax Return.
The form grants an Automatic Extension of Time to File a U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, allowing taxpayers to postpone filing their Federal Individual Tax Return beyond the statutory due date. If the extension is filed by the April tax filing due date, the deadline to submit the completed tax return is extended to October 15, creating a six-month extension period.
Electronic tax filing has played a major role in the increase. Most taxpayers now electronically file their Form 1040 and other documents, and the same systems also allow individuals to quickly submit a federal extension request through the secure ".gov" websites.
Late tax documents remain a common reason taxpayers request an extension. Investors often wait for Schedule K-1 forms from partnerships, trusts, or other pass-through entities before they can complete their tax return.
Self-employed individuals also frequently request additional time. Those reporting business income through Schedule C must review bookkeeping records, calculate deductions, and reconcile estimated tax payments before finalizing their federal taxes.
Investment activity can further complicate tax filing. Individuals reporting capital gains on Schedule D, cryptocurrency transactions, or property sales often need more time to ensure their U.S. Individual Income Tax Return is accurate.
Form 4868 allows taxpayers to request an automatic extension of time without having to explain why additional time is needed. When filed before the April tax filing due date, the extension automatically moves the deadline to October 15.
The extension applies only to filing the return. It does not extend the deadline for paying federal taxes owed.
Taxpayers are encouraged to estimate their tax liability before requesting an extension. Submitting estimated tax payments along with the request can reduce interest on the unpaid amount and limit the total tax bill.
IRS Free File allows taxpayers to file Form 4868 through secure ".gov" websites electronically. The Free File software guides users through the process and submits the extension directly to the IRS.
Commercial tax software also supports extension filing. Programs such as TurboTax Desktop, TurboTax Expert Full Service, and Professional Editions allow taxpayers to request a federal extension through the Filing tab after they import their data.
Some individuals choose to work with a tax professional who can file the extension electronically on their behalf. Accounting firms often provide bookkeeping services and business tax advisory sessions during the busiest weeks of the filing season.
A tax return extension provides extra time to file paperwork, but does not extend the payment deadline. Federal taxes owed remain due on the April filing deadline.
If a taxpayer does not pay the estimated balance by that deadline, the IRS may charge interest on the unpaid amount and apply a late payment penalty. These costs and fees continue accumulating until the tax bill is paid in full.
Submitting estimated tax payments with Form 4868 can reduce the amount subject to interest and penalties during the extension period.
Taxpayers who cannot pay their full tax bill immediately may apply for IRS payment plans. These arrangements allow individuals to pay federal taxes in installments rather than a single payment.
Making partial estimated tax payments before the statutory due date can also help reduce interest charges. Even a small payment lowers the amount of the unpaid balance subject to penalties.
For many taxpayers, requesting a tax return extension provides additional time to prepare accurate documents while addressing any outstanding tax liability.
Self-employed individuals and small business owners often rely on extensions because they must calculate income and deductions before completing Schedule C on their tax return.
Investors with complex portfolios may also request more time. Reporting capital gains, partnership income, or multiple investment transactions can require additional documentation before a Federal Individual Tax Return is complete.
Americans living abroad and certain military personnel may face additional reporting requirements. Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad, explains the rules that apply to U.S. citizens who must file a U.S. individual income tax return while living abroad.
Taxpayers living abroad sometimes qualify for additional time beyond the standard deadline. Military personnel stationed overseas may also receive special filing accommodations.
Individuals affected by federally declared disasters may receive further filing relief under Disaster Victims Tax Relief provisions issued by the IRS.
These policies help taxpayers facing unusual circumstances meet their federal tax filing obligations.
Taxpayers planning to request an extension should begin by estimating their total tax liability. Reviewing income records, prior returns, and estimated tax payments can help determine whether a payment should accompany the extension request.
Next, electronically file Form 4868 using IRS Free File, commercial tax software, or assistance from a tax professional before the statutory due date. The system generates a confirmation number verifying that the request was submitted on time.
Finally, file the completed Federal Individual Tax Return by October 15. Filing before the extended deadline ensures the tax return extension remains valid and helps taxpayers avoid additional penalties.
By William Mc Lee, Editor-in-Chief & Tax Expert—Get Tax Relief Now