Question 1

What is the deadline to file a 2025 tax return on extension in 2026?

Accepted Answer

The regular due date for 2025 individual tax returns is April 15, 2026. By filing Form 4868 on or before that date, you receive an automatic six-month extension, making the extended deadline **October 15, 2026**. According to IRS Publication 590-A, if October 15 falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day.

Question 2

Who qualifies for a tax extension?

Accepted Answer

Virtually all individual and business taxpayers can request an automatic extension. Individual taxpayers file Form 4868; businesses use Form 7004. Members of the armed forces in combat zones or contingency operations receive automatic extensions without filing any form, with deadlines calculated based on 180 days after leaving the zone plus remaining days in the filing period, as detailed in IRS Publication 3.

Question 3

Does a tax extension give me more time to pay my taxes?

Accepted Answer

No. This is one of the most common misconceptions. A tax extension only extends your deadline to *file* your return. Any taxes owed are still due by the original April 15 deadline. If you do not pay by that date, you will incur failure-to-pay penalties and interest, even if your extension to file is valid.

Question 4

Can I set up and fund a SEP IRA during the extension period?

Accepted Answer

Yes. According to IRS Publication 560, you can establish a SEP plan and make contributions "as late as the due date (including extensions) of your income tax return for that year." For 2025, the maximum SEP contribution is the lesser of $70,000 or 25% of compensation. For 2026, these limits increase to $72,000 and $360,000 in maximum compensation considered.

Question 5

How does filing a tax extension affect my ability to claim the child tax credit?

Accepted Answer

Filing an extension can actually help protect your eligibility. According to IRS Publications 519 and 4012, a qualifying child must have a valid SSN issued "on or before the due date of your return (including extensions)" for you to claim the child tax credit (up to $2,000 per qualifying child). If you file on extension, you have until the extended due date — October 15, 2026, for 2025 returns — for the SSN to be issued.

Tax Extensions

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Updated Tax Extension Deadline for US Citizens Abroad

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