Five websites have been identified as authorised by the IRS to submit tax extension requests. These sites, which include FileTax.com, IRS Free File, OnLine Taxes, TaxSlayer, and ExpressExtension, each offer different sets of forms for filing extensions.
The IRS maintains a public database where taxpayers can check if a company is an approved e-file provider. This approval process involves a suitability check, including credit history, tax compliance, and a criminal background check, and can take up to 45 days.
For tax year 2025, the extended deadline for filing returns is October 15, 2026. The IRS Free File service, which is a partnership with the Free File Alliance, is available for filers with an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less, though the extension request itself has no income limit. Free File Fillable Forms, another IRS route, accepts Form 4868 at any income level.
Taxpayers are advised to make a good faith estimate of their total tax on Form 4868, as an unreasonable estimate could void the extension. The form cannot be amended once submitted.