When you file Form 4868, the IRS Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File US Individual Income Tax Return, you can choose to pay the balance due amount in full, in part, or you can choose not to pay anything with your extension.
Pay by Bank Account (filed with return)
To make a payment using your bank account within the program:
- Federal
- Miscellaneous Forms
- Application for Extension
- Complete the necessary information
- 'Go to Extension Payment'.
- Enter the amount you wish to pay with your extension
- E-file and select 'File Extension' to e-file the return
- Be sure to enter your extension payment when you e-file the return
Pay By Credit Card
The IRS will allow you to pay the amount that you listed for "Amount of Tax Payment" on your extension application (Form 4868) by credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa). To do so, your payment must be at least $1. You can pay by phone or over the Internet through one of the service providers on the IRS website.
You will receive a confirmation number when you pay by credit card. Be sure to record this confirmation number and keep it for your records.
Note: Each service provider will charge a convenience fee based on the amount of the tax payment you are making. Fees may vary between service providers. You will be told what the fee is during the transaction and you will have the option to continue or cancel the transaction. You can also obtain the convenience fee by calling the providers' toll-free automated customer service numbers or visiting their websites.
Pay By Mail
If you intend to mail in your payment, you will need to print and mail your Form 4868 with the payment- even if you e-filed the Form 4868. For printing instructions, Click here.
Be sure to make your check or money order payable to the "United States Treasury." Write your social security number, daytime phone number, and "Form 4868" on your check or money order. Do not staple or attach your payment to Form 4868. Mail your Form 4868 and your payment to the appropriate address based on the chart provided within the Form 4868 instructions.
How do I e-file my Extension?
- Federal
- Miscellaneous Forms
- Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File- complete extension information
- GO TO EXTENSION PAYMENT- Enter payment information (if you wish to make an electronic payment)
- E-file extension
Additional Information
If you do not pay the amount in full, you will owe interest on any amounts not paid by the deadline, plus a late payment penalty if you have paid less than 90 percent of your total tax by that date.