Not filing costs way more than not paying
Filing an extension, even if you pay nothing, can significantly reduce what you owe in penalties.
What are your next steps?
Missed the deadline?
You can still file your 2025 tax return — just do it as soon as possible to minimize penalties and interest. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
When does the IRS open?
The IRS typically opens for the new tax filing season at the end of January. Check back then to request more time to file your 2026 tax return.
Special situations
Military or international tax payers may qualify for automatic extensions.
Deadlines may differ for those in federally declared disaster areas.
What happens if your business files an extension but can’t pay yet?
A business tax extension gives you more time to file, but not more time to pay. When you file an extension:
Your business tax return is considered on-time.
You avoid costly late-filing penalties.
Interest and smaller late-payment penalty may apply.
What happens if your business files an extension but can’t pay yet?
A business tax extension gives you more time to file, but not more time to pay. When you file an extension:
Your business tax return is considered on-time.
You avoid costly late-filing penalties.
Interest and smaller late-payment penalty may apply.
What happens if your business files an extension but can’t pay yet?
A business tax extension gives you more time to file, but not more time to pay. When you file an extension:
Your business tax return is considered on-time.
You avoid costly late-filing penalties.
Interest and smaller late-payment penalty may apply.
What you need to know.
Extension deadlines vary.
Where you filed your extension doesn’t matter
TaxAct will be ready to help when 2026 tax extensions are available to file.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can file for free yourself with TaxAct's Free Edition if you meet the qualifications below, including filing using IRS Form 1040 only without having to attach any forms or schedules. Only certain taxpayers are eligible.
Situations covered (assuming no added tax complexity):
W-2 income, Unemployment income, Retirement income
Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit
Dependents
Current Students
Student loan interest
Situations not covered:
Investment income: Stock, interest, dividends, crypto, or capital gains/losses
Sale of home, real estate taxes, mortgage interest, or rental property income
Royalty, trusts, and foreign accounts
Business and farm income
Itemized deductions
Adoption credits and child and dependent care
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Freelance, contractor, side hustle, or self-employed income and expenses
About 44% of users qualify. If you don’t qualify for a basic federal tax return, we have other paid tax filing options to help you easily file taxes online with TaxAct.
*To qualify you must file an extension with TaxAct by 4/15/2026. Discount applies to TaxAct Xpert Full Service when used to prepare and file your tax year 2025 return by 10/15/2026. Prices may vary based on your tax situation. Discount applies to price in cart at time service is complete and does not apply to ancillary products and services. Add sales tax for applicable orders.
