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New Member
posted Jun 1, 2019 11:13:55 AM

Did my automatic 2-month foregin extension actually send/go somewhere?

I went through the wizard to file the automatic 2 month extension for living abroad (using my US mailing address) but I can't tell if something was actually transmitted to the IRS? (It certainly didn't seem like that or give me an option to 'Send')

How do I check this? I see no additional form listed in the forms section but notice the "File an extension" section has changed from 'Start' to 'Update' in the interview sections.

0 3 2059
1 Best answer
Intuit Alumni
Jun 1, 2019 11:13:57 AM

There is no automatic 2 month extension to file when you are overseas.  It is not an extension that you file.  It is just that the IRS allows you 2 additional months to file until June 17th if you are living overseas on April 15th.

There is a box on Form 4868 Extension to file, see attached link, for indicating that you are out of the country and a US citizen or resident.  But for the 2 month extension, you do not need to file the Form 4868.

When you do file your return by June 17th,  you need to attach a statement to your return explaining that you are eligible for the 2 month extension. 

In the search box at the top of the screen, type in extension, filing, additional and click on the Jump to link.  Click yes, you want to apply for an extension and answer the questions about preparing the 2 month extension statement.  As TurboTax states, this statement will be included with your return. 

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-resident-aliens-abroad-automatic-2-month-extension-of-time-to-file

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf



3 Replies
Intuit Alumni
Jun 1, 2019 11:13:57 AM

There is no automatic 2 month extension to file when you are overseas.  It is not an extension that you file.  It is just that the IRS allows you 2 additional months to file until June 17th if you are living overseas on April 15th.

There is a box on Form 4868 Extension to file, see attached link, for indicating that you are out of the country and a US citizen or resident.  But for the 2 month extension, you do not need to file the Form 4868.

When you do file your return by June 17th,  you need to attach a statement to your return explaining that you are eligible for the 2 month extension. 

In the search box at the top of the screen, type in extension, filing, additional and click on the Jump to link.  Click yes, you want to apply for an extension and answer the questions about preparing the 2 month extension statement.  As TurboTax states, this statement will be included with your return. 

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-resident-aliens-abroad-automatic-2-month-extension-of-time-to-file

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf



New Member
Jun 1, 2019 11:13:59 AM

Thank you. This info wasn't very obvious going through the wizard but your explanation helps a lot. Thx!

Intuit Alumni
Jun 1, 2019 11:14:01 AM

You are very welcome!