Illinois Income Tax Extension

How to file an Illinois Tax Extension. Points to consider when to prepare extensions.

Extension Situation
Extension Suggestion
Illinois Tax Refund

Option 1: If you don’t owe any Illinois state taxes and aren’t expecting a refund, you don't need to file a tax extension. However, if you're anticipating a refund, you must submit your Illinois tax return by the deadline.

Option 2: If you don't owe Illinois income tax and aren't expecting a refund, you can automatically use the federal extension you've been granted for your Illinois state taxes as well. There's no need to file a separate Illinois extension form (Form IL-505-I).

Owe Illinois Taxes

Option 1: Make an online payment for your Illinois income taxes with MyTax Illinois.

Option 2: Illinois automatically provides a six-month extension for filing your income tax return, pushing the deadline to October. This extra time is helpful if you need more time to finish your return and want to avoid late filing penalties. However, it’s important to note that this extension only applies to late filing. If you owe any Illinois income tax, you still need to pay it by the original deadline to avoid interest and other penalties. Additionally, filing a federal tax extension won't change your Illinois filing requirements.

Option 3: To file an Illinois tax extension, complete Form IL-505-I, enclose a check or money order, and mail both to the address provided on the form. Remember, even if you've filed an extension, you'll still need to submit your Illinois tax return electronically or by paper by the October deadline.

Illinois Income Tax Calculator
Illinois Tax Deadlines
Tax Penalties
Important: If you owe Illinois and/or IRS income taxes and do not file an IRS and Illinois tax return or extension by the Tax Due Date, you will be subject to IRS and IL late filing penalties. Estimate IRS late filing, payment penalties. In addition, if you do not pay your taxes by the Tax deadline, you will be subject to late tax payment penalties. Filing an extension on time will ONLY eliminate the late filing penalties but not the late tax payment penalties. Late filing penalties are generally higher than late payment penalties, thus file something on time even if you can't pay anything on time!
Taxpert®
Discuss your extension questions and goals with a Taxpert for free and we will guide you through the process.

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