To get a tax extension for filing your U.S. federal income tax return, you need to request additional time by the original tax filing deadline, typically April 15. Here are the main ways to do it:

• File IRS Form 4868 (Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return). You can file this form electronically through IRS e-file partners, tax software, or by mail. It grants you an automatic extension until October 15 to file your return

• Make an electronic payment of any estimated tax you owe using IRS Direct Pay, debit/credit card, or digital wallet, and indicate that the payment is for an extension. This method also serves as your extension request without needing to file Form 4868 separately

• Use IRS Free File , which allows taxpayers of any income level to electronically request an automatic extension for free

Important notes:

• The extension only extends the time to file your tax return, not the time to pay any taxes owed. You must estimate and pay your tax liability by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest

• If you live outside the U.S. on the filing deadline, you may automatically get a two-month extension without filing Form 4868, but you must file if you want more time beyond that

• Some military members and people in disaster areas may qualify for special automatic extensions

In summary, to get a tax extension, submit Form 4868 or make a payment marked for extension by April 15, and pay any estimated taxes owed to avoid penalties. This gives you until October 15 to file your full return