04/08/2026
🚨 Tax Pros & Clients — Let’s Talk About Extensions 🚨
With April 15th quickky approaching, I wanted to leave you with a tax tip....
Did you know a tax preparer cannot file an extension on your behalf without your knowledge and consent?
Here’s what you need to know 👇
🔹 An extension is YOUR election — not the preparer’s decision
Filing an extension (Form 4868) must be authorized by the taxpayer. It is not something a preparer can proactively submit “just in case.”
🔹 Consent is REQUIRED
The IRS expects that the taxpayer has:
✔ Requested the extension
✔ Reviewed the information
✔ Authorized the filing
🔹 It only extends time to FILE — not time to PAY
Even with an extension:
💰 Taxes are still due by the original deadline
📉 Interest & penalties may apply if unpaid
🔹 Unauthorized filing can create serious issues
❌ Misrepresentation of filing status
❌ Potential compliance violations
❌ Breakdown in client trust
🔹 Best Practice for Tax Professionals
Always:
✔ Communicate clearly with your client
✔ Document approval (email, portal, signature)
✔ Provide payment estimates with extension
💼 KNR Tip:
Transparency protects BOTH the client and the preparer. Extensions should always be a joint decision — never an assumption.
If you’re unsure whether an extension was filed or needed — ask your tax professional. Your return, your responsibility.
