HI -- I usually get a refund from the IRS and my state. I need to file an extension at this time -- seems more complicated than I expected. What is the easiest way?

Yes, with TurboTax Easy Extension. It's the fast, easy, and secure way to e-file your federal tax extension.

Anyone can use Easy Extension, even if you don't plan on finishing up with TurboTax. This free service is available to anyone with a U.S. or APO/FPO/DPO address. Get started here.

Your extension needs to be e-filed before midnight May 17, 2021. In the unlikely event of a rejection, you have until May 24, 2021 to either resubmit or mail your extension request. Once your e-filed extension has been accepted, you can file your IRS return anytime before midnight, October 15, 2021.

Note: Filing an extension doesn't give you additional time to pay owed taxes, which are due May 17, 2021 (it's the same date for taxpayers out of the country). If you can't pay owed tax by the deadline, always file an extension so you can avoid the late-filing penalty, which is up to 10 times higher than the late-payment penalty.