You will be allowed this extension if you are a U.S. citizen or resident alien and on the regular due date of your return (April 15, 2019):
- You are living outside of the United States and Puerto Rico and your main place of business or post of duty is outside the United States and Puerto Rico, or
- You are in military or naval service on duty outside the United States and Puerto Rico
This is not an extension for paying the tax owed on your return. While there are no late payment penalties if you pay by the two-month extended due date, you may owe interest on the late paid taxes. If you expect to owe taxes with your filing, the best plan to eliminate or reduce your interest expense is to pay the estimated tax amount by the regular un-extended due date.
When you file the return, it should contain a statement that explains your qualifications for the extension. Your tax preparer will be able to put the appropriate language in your return to document your extension.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us today.