Wasn't able to file by April 15 but made a balance payment + $1 extension payment to IRS

Forum|Forum|2 months ago
April 17, 2026
1 reply
203 views

I completed my draft 1040 but wanted more time to double check everything, so I didn't file by 4/15/26. I did however make a "balance payment" for the draft amount of what I owe on time directly to the IRS online. Let's say that amount is $1000.

When I realized I wanted to take more time to go over everything and not file on/by 4/15/2026, I also made a $1 extension payment on 4/15/26 to initiate an automatic extension so I wouldn't have to file the extension form separately just to be safe.

Let's say the original computation of how much I owe will remain the same, except for the extension payment, so I potentially overpaid by $1.

Moving forward, what is the correct way to modify my 1040? Do I enter $1 for an extension payment, and then my total owed federal tax on the 1040 should appear as $999?

Any other foreseeable issues I should address? Thanks

Not A Product Question

PatriciaV

Level 15

Include the $1 you paid as estimated taxes paid with extension. That would lower your tax due (if any).

When requesting an extension of time to file your original return, you don't need to include a payment. In fact, you can file an extension when you're expecting a refund.

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post. **Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"