Determine whether you need more time to file, not more time to pay
Estimate your total tax liability for 2024
Pay as much as possible by the original tax deadline
File IRS Form 4868 for an individual extension
Submit Form 4868 electronically through tax software, a tax professional, or IRS Free File
Mail Form 4868 if filing by paper
Make an extension payment online through IRS Direct Pay, EFTPS, debit or credit card, or by check or money order
If you live outside the U.S. and qualify, check whether you get an automatic extension or need to file Form 4868
Confirm your state extension rules separately, since state filing requirements may differ
Keep the IRS confirmation or mailing proof for your records
File your completed tax return by the extended deadline
Remember that a filing extension does not extend the time to pay taxes owed
Check the current IRS deadline for 2024 returns before submitting