What Is a Tax Extension?
A tax extension gives a taxpayer more time to file a tax return. In the US, individuals can request an automatic six-month extension to file their federal return, but an extension to file is not an extension to pay: any tax owed is still due by the original deadline, and interest and penalties can apply to late payment.
Estimating What You Owe
People requesting an extension typically estimate their tax and pay it by the original deadline to limit interest and penalties.
State Returns
States have their own extension rules, which may or may not follow the federal extension.
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🔗 Related Terms
More Taxes Terms
- Additional Medicare Tax
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
- Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)
- Capital Gains Tax
- Capital Loss
- Child Tax Credit
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Last updated: September 29, 2026. This definition is for general educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, legal, or medical advice, and it does not recommend any product or course of action. For decisions about your own situation, consult a qualified professional.