How to file tax extensions in New York
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Key Takeaways
- New York State offers a six-month extension to file your individual income tax return, but you have to apply for it by the original due date, usually April 15.
- Even if you get an extension to file, you still need to pay any taxes you owe by the April deadline, otherwise, interest and penalties will start adding up.
- To request an extension, most individual taxpayers use Form IT-370, which you can submit electronically or by mail.
- Getting a federal extension does not automatically give you more time to file your New York return, you still have to request a separate extension with the state.
- If you’re owed a refund and don’t owe taxes, you technically don’t need to request an extension, but it’s still a good idea to file for one if you’ll be late, just to stay on the safe side.
Need to File a New York State Tax Extension?
Life happens. If tax season crept up on you and you’re not quite ready to file your New York State return by April 15 (which is the standard due date for calendar year filers), don’t worry; there’s a built-in backup plan. You can request an automatic six-month extension to file your return. That gives you until October 15 to get everything together.
But, and this is important, this extension only applies to filing your return, not to paying any taxes you owe. Even if you file for an extension, your state tax bill is still due by April 15. If you don’t pay what you owe on time, New York will start tacking on interest and penalties, regardless of your extension status.
How to Request a New York State Tax Extension
You’ve got two options when it comes to filing for an extension:
Online: The easiest way is to head to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website and file your extension request electronically. It’s quick, simple, and you’ll get immediate confirmation.
By Mail: If you prefer to mail it in, you’ll need to use Form IT-370 (Application for Automatic Six-Month Extension of Time to File for Individuals). Where you send the form depends on whether or not you’re including a payment.
If you’re making a payment along with your extension request, mail it to:
Extension Request
PO Box 4125
Binghamton, NY 13902-4125
If you’re not making a payment, mail it to:
Extension Request–NR
PO Box 4126
Binghamton, NY 13902-4126
Either way, make sure it’s postmarked by April 15 to avoid problems.
A Quick Word on Online Resources
New York has a fairly user-friendly state tax website, where you can file your extension, check refund status, and find answers to just about any tax question you might have. It’s worth bookmarking if you’re a resident.
You can access the site by searching “New York State Department of Taxation and Finance,” or go directly to tax.ny.gov to find extension instructions and the online filing portal.
Follow this link for a list that we’ve compiled of tax extension rules by states.
New York State Tax Extension: FAQ
1. What does a New York State tax extension actually do?
A tax extension in New York gives you extra time—six months—to file your state income tax return. So instead of the usual mid-April deadline, you’ll have until mid-October to get everything submitted. It’s important to understand that this extension only applies to the paperwork part. If you owe taxes, those still have to be paid by the original due date in April. The extension is just for filing, not for paying.
2. How do I request a New York State tax extension?
To get an extension, you’ll need to submit Form IT-370 to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Most people file it electronically through the state’s online tax portal, which is the fastest and easiest method. If you’re mailing it in, just make sure it’s postmarked by the original due date. You don’t need to give a reason for the extension, but if you think you owe taxes, you should include a payment with the form to avoid penalties.
3. Do I still have to pay my taxes by April if I get an extension?
Yes, absolutely. A tax extension does not delay the payment deadline. If you owe money to New York State, the full amount is still due by the April deadline. If you don’t pay on time, the state will start charging you interest, and you could also face late payment penalties. That’s why it’s a good idea to make a payment when you file for the extension, even if you’re just estimating the amount.
4. Does a federal tax extension cover New York too?
No, it doesn’t. A federal extension and a New York State extension are completely separate. If you file Form 4868 with the IRS to get a federal extension, you still need to submit Form IT-370 to New York if you want an extension for your state return. They don’t share information automatically, so one won’t cover the other.
5. What happens if I forget to file for an extension and file late?
If you miss the deadline and also forget to request an extension, you may be on the hook for both interest and late filing penalties. The longer you wait, the more it can add up. If you expect to get a refund, there won’t be a penalty for filing late, but it’s still best to stay on top of deadlines to keep things clean and avoid unnecessary stress.
6. Can I file for a New York State tax extension if I’m living out of state or abroad?
Yes, you can. Living outside of New York doesn’t stop you from requesting an extension, as long as you have to file a New York return. If you’re a part-year resident, nonresident with New York income, or someone temporarily living abroad, you can still file Form IT-370. You’ll want to do it electronically if possible to avoid mailing delays, especially if you’re overseas.
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