IRS Offers Extensions by Phone, Computer

For the first time, taxpayers will be able to get automatic four-month tax filing extensions from the Internal Revenue Service with a few clicks of a computer mouse or a telephone call. The IRS said these services are being added this year to the traditional extension request, which still can be made in writing by mailing in Form 4868. About 8 million taxpayers are expected to request extensions this year. The telephone service begins April 1 at (888) 796-1074. The IRS says taxpayers should use Form 4868 as a guide and have with them a copy of their 1999 tax return, because they will need to enter their adjusted gross income and total tax amounts to verify their identity. Computer tax filers can ask for an extension by using their own tax software or going to a paid preparer.