Welcome back to my channel, Tech Gitter Official. In today’s video, we’re talking about IRS Form 4868, the form you’ll need if you want to request extra time to file your tax return.
Many people think filing this form gives them more time to pay their taxes. But that’s not true. Form 4868 only gives you more time to file, usually an extra 6 months. If you owe taxes, you’ll still need to pay as much as you can by the original deadline to avoid interest and penalties.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Part One: Identification
Start by entering your full legal name, your current address with city, state, and zip code, and your Social Security number. If you’re filing jointly, include your spouse’s name and SSN as well.
Part Two: Income Taxes
- Line 4 – Enter your estimated total tax liability for 2024. If you expect zero, you can put zero. But remember, if your estimate isn’t reasonable, the extension can be voided.
- Line 5 – Enter the total payments you’ve already made for 2024. Don’t include any new payment you’re making with this form.
- Line 6 – Subtract line 5 from line 4 to get your balance due. If your payments are greater than your liability, enter zero.
- Line 7 – Enter the amount you’re paying now. Even if you can’t pay it all, pay as much as you can to reduce interest and late payment penalties.
- Line 8 – If you’re considered out of the country on tax day, check the box here.
- Line 9 – For certain filers, like those without U.S. wage withholding and whose return is due June 16th, 2025, check this box.
Part Three: Signature
Sign and date the form. If you’re signing on behalf of someone else, include your title, such as guardian or power of attorney.
Part Four: Submitting the Form
You can file Form 4868 electronically using IRS e-file or approved tax software. This is usually the fastest way.
If you prefer mailing, send it to the IRS address listed for your state. The address may change depending on whether you’re including a payment, so always double-check on the IRS website.
Things to Remember
- Filing Form 4868 gives you an extension to file, not an extension to pay.
- You’ll typically get six extra months to file.
- If you owe money, pay as much as you can now to avoid penalties and interest.
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