If you didn’t quite e-file your tax return by the April 15 tax filing deadline on Tax Day, filing for a tax extension request was a smart move.
Thankfully, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) makes it easy for taxpayers to file Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File, giving you another six months to file. In fact, it’s a little too easy to get a filing extension. And the extra time is often more time than most of us filers need! The new Oct. 15, 2025, extended due date may seem far away, but be cautious — it will likely be here before you know it.
In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you keep your tax return on track.
Complete as much of your return as you can after filing a tax extension.
If you haven’t already, prepare as much of your individual income tax return as you can now while the information is still fresh in your mind.
- Complete what you can — TaxAct® saves your return so you can pick up right where you left off.
- If you’re waiting for tax information from someone else, make an estimate. Our tax calculator can help you determine your tax due amounts.
- Mark estimated tax amounts on your return, so you’ll remember to go back and update them later.
Keep track of your tax documents.
As you prepare your return, you should keep a notebook or list of tax items you still need and questions you have.
- Use a tax preparation checklist to help you with this!
- As you find the tax information you need, check it off the list.
- Jot down how you arrived at different amounts, such as the square footage of your home office or how many days you spent at a vacation rental you own.
Keep these notes with your tax return. That way, if the IRS ever questions anything on your return, your notes can help explain where you got your information.
Keep your tax documents organized after filing an extension.
- Before you file your tax documents, take a few minutes to arrange them so they’re easy to find later.
- Make notes on credit card statements and receipts as necessary.
- Place check marks on tax documents to indicate the information you already entered on your tax return.
A little preparation now will save you from starting all over when you get back to working on your return.
Finish filing as soon as possible.
Trust us, you’ll enjoy summer vacation a lot more if you know you already e-filed your tax return. This is especially true if you’re worried about how much tax liability you’ll owe when you file.
Don’t hold onto your return forever, hoping to find more tax deductions or credits. Simply do the best you can and file. It won’t get easier to remember deductions and other information as time goes by. As you complete your federal tax return, don’t forget to enter any tax payments you made when filing your April 15 extension. If you find something important later, you can always file an amended tax return.
The bottom line
Now that you’ve got some extra time with your income tax extension, use it wisely to stay on track and make the filing process smoother. Keep working through your tax return, stay organized, and update any tax estimates as you go. The more you get done now, the less stress you’ll face as the Oct. 15 deadline approaches.
Plus, if you owe any unpaid tax, filing early can give you more time to manage your payment plan and minimize any late payment penalties. As always, TaxAct is here to help you with your federal tax extension (and state tax extension too, if needed!). Our easy-to-use tax software fills out the necessary IRS forms and guides you every step of the way. Let’s finish your tax year with confidence, so you can enjoy a well-earned summer break while knowing your taxes are in good hands!