If you know you are not going to be able to file your taxes by the Federal Deadline in mid April you will need to file an Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return (Form 4868). Filing for an extension instead of rushing through to complete your taxes, which may cause errors and a possible audit may be a better choice. There are three easy ways to file for an extension. The following will provide a few details concerning Form 4868.

How to File a Form 4868

Choice 1: You can file Form 4868 by accessing the IRS e-file using your personal computer or through a tax professional such as H&R Block.

Choice 2: You can pay all or part of you estimate of income tax due using a credit or debit card. This does not mean you will not need to file your taxes. You will still need to file your taxes, but it may offset any interest you will be assessed for filing after the due day even if an extension is granted.

Choice 3: You can file a paper Form 4868 to request the extension of time.

Filing for an extension may be your only option if you are unable to file by the federal deadline. You will still be responsible to file within 6 months and you may owe interest on the taxes you owe. If you are out of country you may still need to request an extension if you are unable to file your taxes. See Form 4868 for more specific details. Also, using programs such as Turbo Tax may help you speed up the time it takes to get your taxes done instead of filing for a tax extension.