ATHENS — It’s April 15, and that means time is up at midnight to file your taxes. But don’t worry, if you need more time to file your income tax return, there are ways to get it.
Returns are supposed to be properly addressed and postmarked no later than today. But, you can also file for an extension.
You can avoid a late filing penalty by filing for this extension of time. Filing for an extension does not mean you have more time to pay what you owe, it just means you have until Oct. 15 to file your return.
You can file for an extension three different ways:
- You can pay all or part of your estimated taxes online and indicate you need an extension.
- You can electronically file using IRS Form 4868 on your computer or through a tax professional.
- You can fill out IRS Form 4868 and mail it with a payment of your estimated taxes.
If you do not file your tax return on time (or during the extension period), you risk losing your refund, having to pay interest and penalties and collection and enforcement actions from the Internal Revenue Service.
If you plan to file tonight before the deadline, the IRS has great tips that can help you avoid the common errors that can occur when filing.
