IR-2006-60, April 12, 2006 Washington — The IRS urges taxpayers who need more time to complete their tax returns to e-file their extensions. E-filing an extension is convenient, safe and secure, and taxpayers receive confirmation to keep with their records. "If you haven't finished your return, don't panic," said IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson. "Just file an extension, either by e-file or by mail." The agency expects to receive 9.6 million extensions during 2006. Taxpayers can get an automatic 6-month extension of time to file their tax returns by filing Form 4868, Automatic Extension of Time to File. The extension gives taxpayers until October 16 to file the tax return. In previous years, only a 4-month extension was automatic and taxpayers who needed more time had to make a second request. Taxpayers can e-file the extension from a home computer or through a tax professional who uses e-file. Taxpayers can e-file their extensions at no cost. Several companies offer free e-filing of extensions through the Free File Alliance; these companies are listed on IRS.gov. Last year, 9.4 million extensions were filed with the IRS. Overall, e-filed extensions made up 19 percent of all extensions filed during 2005. Last year, 1.8 million extensions were e-filed, up from 1.4 million in 2004 – an increase of 29 percent. An extension of time to file does not give the taxpayer an extension of time to pay. Those who owe taxes can make a payment when they file the extension either by mailing a check or by several electronic payment methods such as electronic funds withdrawals from bank accounts and credit card payments. Related Link: Free e-file for extension filers Filing Season Statistics 04/08/2005 04/07/2006 Percent Change Total Receipts 88,049,000 87,732,000 -0.4 Total Processed 82,734,000 82,747,000 0.0 E-filing Receipts TOTAL 55,782,000 57,740,000 3.5 Tax Professionals 39,372,000 41,939,000 6.5 Self-prepared 13,551,000 15,801,000 16.6 Telefile 2,859,000 NA NA Web Usage Visits to IRS.gov 96,074,733 103,132,922 7.3 Total Refunds Number 72,278,000 71,835,000 -0.6 Amount $158,222 billion $164.499 billion 4.0 Average $2,189 $2,290 4.6 Direct Deposit Refunds Number 44,275,000 46,917,000 6.0 Amount $113.790 billion 124.366 billion 9.3 Average $2,570 $2,651 3.1 Subscribe to IRS Newswire
