Filing an extension

[Bi9]

When I complete Form 4868 to file for an extension, Turbo Tax prints DO NOT FILE and FORM NOT FINAL on the form when it comes off my printer. The form has all the required information on it. I cannot send it to the IRS in this format. What to do?

[xmasbaby0]

An extension?    For what tax year?  You are way too late to request an extension for 2019 and way too early to request an extension for your 2020 tax return.  What are you trying to do?

[xmasbaby0]

You had to request an extension for a 2019 tax return by no later than July 15, 2020---and you had to pay your estimated 2019 tax by that date;  the extension would have given you until October 15 to file the actual tax return.

If you think you are going to need an extension to file your 2020 tax return, you will be able to make that request sometime in March 2021 and submit the request by April 15, 2021.

[Bi9]

Thanks.  It is for 2020 filing. I did not realize that one has to wait until March to file.

[fanfare]

You do not have to wait until March!

You can get Form 4868 in fillable PDF form at www.irs.gov under "forms".

The 2020 version should be online soon after the new year.

You don’t need to file Form 4868 if you make a payment using the IRS electronic payment options. Your extension will be automatically processed when you pay part or all of your estimated income tax electronically. You can pay online or by phone.

Indicate that the payment is for an extension.

Also after the new year.

[Bi9]

Thank you. I was premature in attempting to file. Will do so after January 1st. Thank you for the advice.