What is the IRS refund deadline for old returns?

You have three years from the original tax filing deadline for that tax year to claim a refund. After that date, the refund is forfeited and kept by the US Treasury. Watch coverage about the IRS tax deadline 2026 for older returns so you do not miss the window.

Does Form 4868 extend time to pay taxes?

No. A Form 4868 extension only extends time to file, generally by six months. To limit penalties and interest, pay your expected balance by the regular tax filing deadline. Many taxpayers target 90% of current-year tax or 100% of last year’s liability when making the extension payment.

How can India-based taxpayers request a Form 4868 extension?

Use IRS-approved e-file software or mail Form 4868. Pay electronically via IRS Direct Pay from a US bank account or approved card processors. Keep your confirmation number. If you are a US taxpayer abroad, you often get an automatic two-month filing extension, but interest still runs from the regular deadline.

Who in India typically needs to file a US return?

US citizens, Green Card holders, and those who met US tax residency generally must file, even if living in India. India residents holding US stocks via LRS and receiving only dividends with withholding usually do not file solely for that. If you earned US wages or business income, evaluate filing requirements.

Global Market Insights

February 17: IRS Tax Filing Deadline – Refund Risk, Form 4868 Guide

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 17, 2026February 17, 2026

As of February 17, the tax filing deadline is trending because missing key IRS dates can cost you your refund forever. For India-based investors with US tax ties, timing matters for cash flow and Q1 allocation. We explain the IRS refund deadline, who is affected, and how a Form 4868 extension grants six extra months to file. Pay attention to what is due at the tax filing deadline, what you can delay, and how to stay penalty-light while keeping funds available for markets.