When my NJ return is still pending and it is close to the deadline, I file for an NJ extension via the NJ Taxation portal. If the efile is rejected and there is no way to fix it, I would have to mail in the return which would come in after the deadline.
Seems like free protection to me.
Anybody see a downside?
There shouldn't be any issue with filing an extension on the NJ website, however you usually have several days to fix a rejected return and still be considered to have filed on time..
Not all efile rejection codes are fixable. Then you have to mail your return. Mail that could take over a week. That's the case I worry about.
The tax return is considered "filed" when it is postmarked, not when it is received. While I can't find any information on New Jersey, specifically, I imagine they follow the same rules as the IRS which allows a few days for taxpayers to get a mailed return postmarked after an e-file rejection before it is counted as "late".
However, you're correct - filing the extension buys some protection and is a good idea to cover your bases.