How do i file for an extension in turbotax

Tips to help you file an extension

  • Filing an income
    tax extension

    If you can't complete your federal tax return by the deadline, find out how and when to file an IRS extension
    and push your deadline back to October 15th.

  • How to file for an
    extension of state taxes

    While the IRS requires you to file Form 4868 for your federal extension, each state has its own requirements for obtaining a similar state
    tax extension.

  • What to do after you've
    filed an income tax extension

    Now that you've filed an extension, you might wonder what you need to do between now and when your tax return is due. We've addressed some of the
    common questions.

Frequently asked questions

You can file an extension for free through our Easy Extension website.
File a free extension

Generally, no. However, there are a few cases in which you can. Learn more

If you’re getting a federal refund, the short answer is no. However, it’s still a good idea to file an extension to protect yourself, and it’s free to do so. Learn more

It varies from state to state. If your state requires it and you’re filing with TurboTax, there’s a direct link to file an extension when you go to complete your state return. Learn more

If you filed for an extension, you’ll have until October 15 to submit your return. You don’t need to do anything extra to finish up in TurboTax. Once your return is done and you’re ready to file, we’ll guide you through the next steps. Learn more

There are two ways to receive an automatic 6-month extension to file your Georgia income tax return:

Get an extension to file your Federal return 

You do not need to request an extension to file your Georgia return if you receive a Federal extension. The due date for filing your Georgia return will be automatically extended with an approved Federal extension. Attach a copy of Federal Form 4868 or the IRS confirmation letter (if you request a Federal extension electronically) to the Georgia return when filed. Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or visit their website at www.irs.gov to obtain Form 4868 and additional extension information.

or

Submit Georgia Form IT-303, if you don't need a Federal extension

You must mail Form IT-303 before the statutory return due date and attach a copy to the return when filed. We will notify you only if your extension request is denied.

An extension to file cannot exceed 6 months and does not extend the date for paying the tax.

Tax must be mailed, along with Form IT-560, by the statutory due date for filing the return to avoid late payment penalty and interest. The amount paid should be entered on Form 500, Page 2, Line 20.

You can file an extension for your taxes by submitting Form 4868 with the IRS online or by mail. This must be done before the last day for filing taxes. Filing an extension for your taxes gives you additional months to prepare your return no matter the reason you need the extra time.

How do i file for an extension in turbotax

What is a tax extension?

When some taxpayers ask, “How do I get an extension for my taxes?” they might be thinking of the taxes owed and not the return itself.

This question calls attention to a key distinction about what a tax extension is — and what it is not. An extension only gives you more time to finish the paperwork, not more time to pay.

Your tax payment is due on the tax deadline, which typically falls on April 15 or on the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday.

  • If you know you’ll be getting a refund, you won’t need to worry about paying when you are filing an extension for taxes. The earlier you file your return, the earlier you’ll receive your refund.
  • If you think or know you’ll owe, you should estimate your tax liability and pay the amount due when you file Form 4868.

Is there a penalty for filing for a tax extension?

Filing a tax extension is not a bad thing. There is no penalty for filing an extension. However, not paying on time or enough, or failing to file altogether, may cost you.

  • If you don’t pay the full amount you owe, the IRS will charge you interest on the unpaid balance until you pay the full amount.
  • If you don’t pay at least 90% of the amount you owe, you might also be subject to a late payment penalty. The penalty is usually half of 1% of the amount owed for each month, up to a maximum of 25%.
  • If you don’t file either your return or Form 4868 by the tax filing deadline, you’ll be subject to a late filing penalty. The penalty is usually 5% of the amount you owe for each month, up to a maximum of 25%.

After you file the extension, you’ll have until October 15 to gather your documents and finish your filing.  When you complete your return, you should include the amount you’ve already paid in the payments section of your Form 1040.

Can you file a tax extension online? What ways are there?

Form 4868 is the IRS document you complete to receive an automatic extension to file your return. You can file a tax extension online in one of several ways with H&R Block. While you won’t be filling out the paper Form 4868 line-by-line, your tax extension information will be sent online to the IRS.

Here’s how to get an extension on your taxes with H&R Block*

  • File your tax extension online on your own – Start with an existing H&R Block Online account or create a new one to submit your extension. If you’ve filed with us online in the past, this experience will be familiar to you. Our program will ask you all the relevant questions, so you can file your extension with the IRS.
  • File your tax extension with a tax pro virtually – Work with H&R Block to connect with a remote tax expert who can submit your tax extension for you. If you haven’t started your return with us virtually, select the version of H&R Block Virtual for your situation and complete the initial information. Then once you’ve created your account, send your tax pro a secure message to request the extension. Already working with a pro? Simply connect with them to determine if an extension is necessary.
  • Have a local tax pro file your extension – Work with your current tax pro to file your extension virtually. Log into your MyBlock account and send your tax pro a secure message to request the extension.

Don’t live in the United States? Find out how to file an extension when you’re living abroad from our Expat Tax Services team.

* Fees may apply.

Can TurboTax desktop file an extension electronically?

Unfortunately, you cannot e-file an extension using TurboTax Desktop.

How much does TurboTax charge for an extension?

Benefits of filing an extension Filing a tax extension is free, easy and automatic: Just submit Form 4868 electronically or on paper by the filing deadline. TurboTax Easy Extension makes it easy.