The Buzz: Tax extension expires soon

The Internal Revenue Service urges taxpayers whose tax-filing extension runs out on Oct. 15 to double check their returns for often-overlooked tax benefits and then file their returns electronically using IRS e-file (http://www.irs.gov/Filing) or the Free File (http://www.irs.gov/uac/Free-File:-Do-Your-Federal-Taxes-for-Free) system.

Statistically for Montana, the IRS projects more than 498,000 will file this year, of which, more than 446,000 will choose to electronically file their return and an estimated 57,400 Montanans have requested the six-month extension to file.

Although Oct. 15 is the last day for most people, some still have more time, including members of the military and others serving in combat zone localities who typically have until at least 180 days after they leave the combat zone to both file returns and pay any taxes due.

“If you still need to file, don’t forget that you can still file electronically through Oct. 15,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. “Many people may not realize they may be eligible to use Free File available on IRS.gov/freefile. Free File is free tax software that takes the guesswork out of return preparation. Even if you’re filing in the final days, filing electronically remains easy, safe and the most accurate way to file your taxes.”

—Jo Dee Black