To Extend or Not to Extend, That Is the Question?

Have you looked at your calendar yet today? Have you noticed that April 15 has already come and gone? Of course, it’s pretty hard to miss tax day, but some people actually do. So should you file an extension now if you didn’t make it on time? Some people believe filing an extension is a good way to get the IRS’s attention and thus increase the likelihood of an audit. Others think the exact opposite is true. So what should you do if you’re late: extend or not? It depends.
In some cases, it might just be best to file your taxes now and pay a small late penalty. That can put the problem to rest and as long as you don’t get selected for an audit, then the case is closed. However, in other cases, filing an extension is a better option.
For example, if you are already being audited, then file an extension. This will prevent the IRS from including the current return in the audit. In addition, the audit could affect your current return; so waiting to see how it plays out could be wiser. Another good reason file for an extension is if you don’t have everything you need to file an accurate return. It’s better to get the return completely right and get it in late than to send it in promptly with incorrect information.
Turning in an incorrect return could lead to having to file and amended return and those are more likely to be audited. No matter what you choose to do, you should also be aware that filing for an extension does not mean you have more time to pay off your tax bill if you are going to end up owing money. You are still required to pay the amount you think you will owe, on time. If you overpay, then you will get a refund when you do finally file your return. But keep in mind that you might still pay a late penalty if you file for an extension after the deadline and you owe taxes.
How Easy is it for Wealthy MLBers to Avoid State Income Tax?
How Easy is it for Wealthy MLBers to Avoid State Income Tax? Spring is here and that means a lot of things to a lot of people. For many, spring means baseball is back, from Little League to the Majors, ball players are back on the diamond hitting homers, striking people out and stealing bases.…
How Can I Sustain My Family Wealth?
How Can I Sustain My Family Wealth? At GROCO we work with some of the most successful and wealthiest people in the world. We’ve seen a lot of clients come through our doors and we’ve learned a lot about what makes them successful. We’ve also enjoyed much success in our own right. Our clients have…
Wealth Building: Six Keys
Wealth Building: Six Keys By Scott Hove There are keys to wealth and success that those who have attained them understand. If you wish to build wealth and achieve success then it’s crucial to implement the keys discussed below. Here, then, are six things that the successful understand and implement. As you read them, please…
Real Estate Investing: Lease Options Offer Multiple Profit Opportunities
Real Estate Investing: Lease Options Offer Multiple Profit Opportunities By Jordan Taylor Mention “real estate investing strategies” and the first thing that typically comes to mind is buying and selling. But a strategy often overlooked and underutilized is the option—and the smart use of options can generate some fast and impressive profits. An option…