The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued a reminder to taxpayers who need more time to submit their federal income tax return that they must request an extension today (15 April) to avoid late-filing penalties.
An approved extension will push the filing deadline to 15 October 2026.
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The federal agency underlined that this relief applies only to filing, not to payment. It noted that the tax due remains payable by 15 April.
It said taxpayers should estimate their total tax, subtract any prior payments and pay the remaining amount by the standard deadline to reduce penalties and interest.
The IRS added that individuals can seek an extension via IRS Free File guided software on IRS.gov and there is no cost to file the request electronically.
Alternatively, they can also file Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File US Individual Income Tax Return, electronically.
Taxpayers who choose to pay part or all of their expected liability through IRS online payment platforms can indicate “extension” as the payment reason. Doing so automatically grants an extension without any extra documentation. However, the IRS advised taxpayers to keep the confirmation number for their records.
Those preferring paper submission can complete Form 4868 and mail it to the address listed in the form instructions.
The IRS also outlined groups that receive additional time without needing to file an extension request.
Members of the military stationed outside the US and Puerto Rico are granted an automatic two-month extension to file, until 15 June 2026.
The relief also extends to those serving in combat zones, who “generally have at least 180 days after leaving the combat zone to file returns and pay any taxes due”.
US citizens and resident aliens who live and work outside the US and Puerto Rico are likewise given an automatic two-month extension to file, until 15 June. Interest, however, will apply to any payments made after 15 April 2026.
Taxpayers in certain federally declared disaster areas may also qualify for more time to file and pay, depending on the specific relief provisions in place.
Earlier this month, the IRS widened access to its business tax account, an online self‑service system for managing federal tax responsibilities.
