How can I extend the tax filing deadline to October 15?

If you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder living abroad, you may already get extra time to file your U.S. tax return. But if you need until October 15, you usually need to request an additional extension.

Here’s how it works:

• Automatic extension to June 15: If you live outside the U.S. on the regular April filing deadline, you generally receive an automatic two-month extension to file your tax return. You do not need to submit a form for this, but you should include a short statement with your return explaining that you qualified because you were living abroad.
• Additional extension to October 15: If you need more time after June 15, you can file Form 4868 with the IRS. This extends your filing deadline to October 15.
• Important payment rule: An extension gives you more time to file your return, but not more time to pay. If you owe U.S. tax, the payment is generally still due by the regular April deadline. Interest may apply if you pay after that date, even if your filing extension is approved.

In short: expats often have until June 15 automatically, but to extend the filing deadline to October 15, you should file Form 4868 before the June deadline.