As the April 15 tax deadline nears, taxpayers can apply for a six-month extension to file their returns without penalty by using the IRS online payment system or submitting Form 4868. While over 100 million returns have been filed, the IRS anticipates over 140 million total submissions. U.S. citizens abroad receive a two-month automatic extension, and military personnel may have longer deadlines. However, taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties, which include a 5% monthly penalty for failing to file and a 0.5% penalty for failing to pay, both capped at 25%. Taxpayers may seek relief for penalties and can access payment plans if they cannot meet tax obligations.
