When taxpayers submit a request for a tax extension, they are granted additional time to file their return; but, they are not required to pay the amount that they owe.
Despite the fact that this extension is valid until October 15th, the Internal Revenue Service requires that payment be made prior to the initial date.
Does requesting an extension with the IRS delay payment?
No, an extension is only applicable to the procedure of filing rather than the payment of taxes. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires taxpayers to estimate and pay any amount that is required before the deadline in order to avoid fines and interest.
How to properly request an extension with the IRS?
The application for an automatic extension can be submitted in a few different ways:
- Make use of the Free File service offered by the IRS.
- A payment should be made electronically, and the extension option should be chosen.
- Send in your completed Form 4868 either through the mail or online.
It is presumed that the taxpayer has satisfied the payment requirement if they have made the expected payment in addition to submitting the application.
What happens if you don’t pay on time?
Payment penalties may be imposed on the taxpayer in the event that they do not make their payment by the specified deadline. Even if they are granted an extension to file, the Internal Revenue Service will still apply cumulative interest to the amount that is payable beginning with the day that the tax was originally due.
In the Internal Revenue Service, how many taxpayers ask for extensions?
It is a frequent practice among taxpayers who require additional time to prepare their documentation, as evidenced by the fact that around 19 million persons requested an automatic extension during the tax season of 2025, according to projections provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
IRS tax payment recommendations
The IRS suggests that you:
- Make sure that the expected amount of taxes is calculated accurately.
- Even if you do not have all of the information to file, you should still make the payment before April’s deadline.
- The process can be simplified by utilizing applications such as Free File.
Tax fines can be avoided and a clean tax record can be maintained by taking these actions.
Requesting an extension on your taxes does not cause a delay in payment. It is essential to ensure that you are aware that the extension is only applicable to the process of filing the return. Make sure that you pay on time and make advantage of the resources that are available to you in order to prevent any issues with the Internal Revenue Service.
