You are allowed an automatic 2-month extension to file your return and pay federal income tax if you are a U.S. citizen or resident alien, and on the regular due date of your return: You are living outside of the United States and Puerto Rico and your main place of business or post of duty is outside the United States and Puerto Rico, or You are in military or naval service on duty outside the United States and Puerto Rico. If you use a calendar year, the regular due date of your return is April 15, and the automatic extended due date would be June 15. If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the due date is delayed until the next business day. Even if you are allowed an extension, you will have to pay interest on any tax not paid by the regular due date of your return. Service in a Combat Zone If you served in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty area, see Extension of Deadlines in Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide. Married taxpayers If you file a joint return, either you or your spouse can qualify for the automatic extension. If you and your spouse file separate returns, this automatic extension applies only to the spouse who qualifies. How to get the extension To use this automatic 2-month extension, you must attach a statement to your return explaining which of the two situations listed earlier qualified you for the extension. Related U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad - Extensions of Time to File
