Intuit Academy Tax Practice Exam 2025 - Free Tax Practice Questions and Study Guide

Filers who need additional time to submit their tax returns should use Form 4868, which is the Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. This form allows taxpayers to request an automatic six-month extension for filing their tax returns, giving them more time to prepare and submit their financial information without incurring late filing penalties.

Form 4868 does not extend the time to pay any taxes owed, which is an important distinction. Taxpayers still need to estimate their tax liability and pay any amount due by the original filing deadline to avoid interest and penalties on late payments. Using Form 4868 is important for individuals who may need extra time due to various personal circumstances or complications in preparing their return.

In contrast, Form 1040 is the standard tax return form that individuals use to report their income and calculate their tax liability. Forms W-2 and 1099 are informational returns used by employers and businesses, respectively, to report income paid to employees and independent contractors, not for extending the filing deadline.