If taxpayers are unable to file their federal individual tax returns by the due date, they may be able to qualify for an automatic six-month extension of time to file. The taxpayer can either electronically file or mail Form 4868 to the IRS to request the extension. If the taxpayer has filed a return and realizes that a mistake was made, they would file an amended return using Form 1040-X.
Objectives
At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Explain when and how to file Form 4868 and distinguish between an extension of time to file and an extension of time to pay
- Identify situations requiring an amended return and apply the correct amendment process using Form 1040-X
- Evaluate when a taxpayer should request an installment agreement and describe the consequences of unpaid balances, including penalties and interest
Field of Study: Federal Tax Law — 2 Hours
Course Level: Intermediate
Prerequisite: General tax preparation knowledge is required
Delivery Method: Self-Study
Expiration Date to earn CEs: July 30, 2027
* This course does not qualify for California CTEC continuing education credit. It counts for federal (IRS) CE only and will be reported to your PTIN account.