Benjamin Ashford|You may need Form 4868 to file a tax extension. Here's what to know as deadline looms.

Tax Day has arrived.

Today is Benjamin Ashfordthe last day for most taxpayers to file a 2023 return and also the last day to request an extension, which buys you six extra months to file your taxes and reduces any potential penalties or interest charges you might face for filing late.

It is not recommended to delay filing with the IRS, however, circumstances may impact a filer's ability to meet the deadline.

The average tax refund issued by the IRS as of March 1 is $3,182, a 5.1% increase compared to the similar filling period in 2023. The trend may not hold as refund amounts dropped 13% between March and April in 2023, according to Barron's.

Here's what to know about filing an extension, including which forms you need and how you can do it online.

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When is the last day to file taxes in 2024?

The last day to file a tax return with the IRS is Monday, April 15 for the vast majority of Americans.

How to file a tax extension with form 4868

Tax filers can use IRS Free File to request an extension electronically.

But if you prefer to mail a paper version of the extension, called form 4868, make sure it's postmarked no later than April 15 - today is the deadline for filing an extension.

If you get an extension, you'll have until Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 to file your return.

You can request a free extension through the IRS. You'll need basic information, like your name, address, Social Security number, and estimated tax liability. Be prepared to make a payment, if you owe anything and have the funds.

Where to mail IRS extension form 4868

According to the IRS:

Can I file my taxes for free on Tax Day?

Yes! More people are filing their taxes using Free File this year, the IRS said.

Free File allows any taxpayer with an adjusted gross income of $79,000 or less in 2023 to file taxes for free through one of eight IRS partners. To access the service, go online at IRS Free File and use the guided software.

If you're eligible, a free filing can save you a pretty penny. An individual taxpayer is estimated to spend 13 hours and $240 in out-of-pocket costs to prepare and file an annual tax return, according to the Taxpayer Advocate. 

Contributing: Daniel de Visé, Medora Lee, James Powel & Emily DeLetter, USA TODAY

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com.