What if I can't pay what I owe by April 15?

File the extension anyway. Filing eliminates the failure-to-file penalty, which is much larger than the failure-to-pay penalty.

Then:

1. Pay as much as you can by April 15 to minimize interest charges.
2. Set up an IRS payment plan (installment agreement) at irs.gov/opa for the remaining balance.

The IRS also offers hardship options including Currently Not Collectible status and Offer in Compromise for eligible taxpayers.