Give yourself more time if necessary
If you aren’t quite ready to file your taxes by the deadline, you can request a six-month extension. While this is technically a “request,” in practice extensions are automatically granted to taxpayers who ask for them before April 15. Requesting an extension is rather easy — just a quick IRS form that many tax-prep software providers allow you to file electronically.
It’s important to mention that an extension gives you more time to file, not to pay any taxes you owe. Even if you request an extension, any taxes you owe are still due on April 15, or you could be subject to interest and penalties.
