Automatic extensions

If you are currently outside the United States and Puerto Rico, you may qualify for an automatic two-month extension. See Extensions Outside U.S. and Puerto Rico for more information.

Filing an extension does not extend your time to pay

If you are likely to owe taxes, you still need to pay by the filing deadline to avoid late fees and penalties. You must estimate the tax due amount and pay when you file the extension request.

To complete a federal and/or state extension

1. From within your TaxAct return, click Filing on the left to expand, then click File Extension.
2. Continue with the interview process to enter all of the appropriate information.
3. On the screen titled Filing Extension Step - Extension Options, you will have the option to either print or e-file your federal extension only. State extensions can be printed later in the interview process.

If you expect to receive a refund (i.e. your total 2020 payments are more than your estimated tax liability), the program will automatically enter zero (0) for your balance due on Line 6.

To complete a federal and/or state extension on a mobile device

1. From within your TaxAct return, click the menu icon in the upper left-hand corner.
2. Click Filing to expand, then click File Extension.
3. Continue with the interview process to enter all of the appropriate information.