why i can't file extension electronically?

from what i learned none of the desktop versions can e-file the extension which is possible only with online. Why? ask Turbotax. Personally i use a free competitor to file my extension from the iRS website'

go to this  IRS website

https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868 

then click on this link

Electronically file for an extension using Free File software

yes a competitor will have some of your basic tax info . 

if you don't like this your options 1) not to file an extension. no penalties unless you owe (you may not owe on return filed but if IRS comes up with different numbers or somnmething gets changed later where you owe -they'll be penalties for late filing.

2) file form 4868 timely by mail. use tracking and get it postmarked on or before 4/15. don't use a business postage meter. I don't think the iRS accepts the date because some in the past have changed the actual date so it seems it was mailed timely. That may be criminal - mail fraud under USPS rules.  

For the Desktop program,  type extend in the search and click on the Jump to link.  Or go to  Other Tax Situations----then scroll down to Other Tax Forms---File an Extension

Extensions form your computer must be printed and mailed.

Or use the online "Easy Extension".

https://turbotax.intuit.com/irs-tax-extensions/

This is so ridiculous.  I can't believe in this age of paperless communication, along with what Turbo Tax charges for its software, that there isn't a way to file an extension electronically.  I'm pretty positive there was in the past!