How to File an Arizona Tax Extension: A Complete Guide

Tax season is crazy, especially when life gets in the way. 

Whether you have multiple responsibilities, are waiting on important documents, or just need more time to get your finances in order, the pressure of meeting tax deadlines can be overwhelming. 

But what if you could buy yourself some extra time, without penalties? 

If you’re an Arizona taxpayer, you’re in luck. 

A tax extension might be just what you need to file on time without the stress.

Keep reading to discover how a few simple steps can give you the breathing room you need to file your Arizona state taxes with confidence.

Overview of Arizona Tax Extension Requirements

What is an Arizona Tax Extension?

An extension gives you more time to file your state tax return without penalties for late filing. But remember, an extension doesn’t give you more time to pay any taxes due. In Arizona, you must pay at least 90% of your total tax liability by April 15th to avoid penalties. This refers to the amount you’ll report on your final return—not just an estimate. For most people, that’s an extension until October 15th.

Important Arizona Extension Deadlines and What They Include

When is the Deadline to File a Tax Extension for Arizona?

The deadline to file an extension in Arizona is April 15th, 2026. If that falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date moves to the next business day. This extension applies to individual tax returns (Forms 140, 140A, 140EZ, 140NR, and 140PY) and small business income returns.

Do I Need to File a Separate Tax Extension for Arizona If I Already Filed a Federal Tax Extension?

No, if you have a federal extension, Arizona will accept it for the same six months. But, if you need to make an Arizona tax payment, you should file Arizona Form 204 along with your payment by April 15th.

If I File a Tax Extension for Arizona, When Is My New Deadline?

Your new deadline will be October 15th, 2025, six months from the original due date of April 15th. This applies to individual and small business income tax returns.

How to Request an Extension in Arizona

How Do I File an Arizona Tax Extension?

Form 204 tax extension applies to individual tax returns (Forms 140, 140A, 140EZ, 140NR, and 140PY) and small business income returns.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to filing a tax extension in Arizona, whether you prefer to file online or by mail:

Online Filing

1. Access the Form:

• Visit the Arizona Application for Filing Extension (Form 204) page on the Arizona Department of Revenue website.
• 👉 Note: You’ll only need this form if you’re mailing a payment — it’s used to calculate your estimated tax liability. If you plan to pay online, skip this step. Your electronic payment will automatically serve as your extension request.

2. Complete the Form:

• If you plan to mail your payment, complete Form 204 with your personal details and estimated tax.
• 👉 Skip this step if you're paying online—you do not need to submit Form 204 when paying electronically.

3. Calculate Your Payment:

• Estimate your total tax liability for the year and ensure you've paid at least 90% of this amount to avoid penalties.

4. Submit Your Tax Payment (Online or by Mail):

• Submit your estimated tax payment using the AZTaxes Payment Portal.
• You can pay by e-check, credit card, or other accepted methods.
• 👉 Important: If you're paying online, you do not need to submit Form 204. Your payment automatically serves as your extension request.
• If you are paying by mail, include your completed Form 204 with your payment. (See the “Paper Filing” section for full instructions.)

5. Save a Copy of the Submission:

• Save a copy of your payment confirmation. The Arizona Department of Revenue won’t send a confirmation unless there’s a problem with your extension request.

Paper Filing

1. Download the Form:

• Download Form 204 from the Arizona Department of Revenue website.

2. Fill Out the Form:

• Complete all required fields on Form 204, including your name, Social Security Number, address, and filing status.
• Check the federal extension box if you have been granted a federal extension.

3. Calculate Your Payment:

• Determine your total tax liability and subtract any payments made. Ensure you pay at least 90% of what you owe.

4. Prepare Your Payment:

• Write a check or money order for your tax payment, payable to the \"Arizona Department of Revenue.\" Include your Social Security Number, the form number (204), and the tax year on your payment.

5. Mail the Form and Payment:

With Payment: Mail your completed Form 204 and payment to:

• Arizona Department of Revenue
• PO Box 29085
• Phoenix, AZ 85038-9085

Without Payment: If no payment is due, mail your Form 204 to:

• Arizona Department of Revenue
• PO Box 52138
• Phoenix, AZ 85072-2138

6. Keep Records:

• Retain a copy of the completed form and proof of mailing for your records. You will only hear back from the ADOR if your extension is denied.

Need Help? Get Personalized Assistance!

Feeling overwhelmed? Our team is here to provide personalized assistance with your federal tax extensions. Get started today with your extension.

FAQs

Do I Need to Pay My State Taxes When I File a Tax Extension for Arizona?

Yes, to avoid penalties, you must pay at least 90% of your total tax liability by April 15th, 2026, even if you file for an extension. The extension only delays your filing deadline, not your payment deadline.

Who is Eligible for a Tax Extension in Arizona?

Taxpayers needing more time to file their state tax return can request an extension. However, to avoid penalties, you must ensure that 90% of your estimated tax liability is paid by the original due date.

What Are the Penalties for Filing My Taxes Late in Arizona?

If you fail to file your return or extension request by the deadline, the penalty is 4.5% of the tax due per month, up to a maximum of 25%. The minimum penalty for late filing is $50.

What Are the Penalties for Paying My Taxes Late in Arizona?

If you do not pay at least 90% of your tax liability by the original due date, you will incur a late payment penalty of 0.5% per month, up to a maximum of 10% of the unpaid balance, plus interest.

📌 Arizona Form 140 Instructions (2023 – filed in 2024) – from the Arizona Department of Revenue

How Do I Know Whether I Should File a Tax Extension for Arizona?

If you need more time to gather your tax documents and ensure accurate filing, you should file a tax extension. Don’t forget to pay the necessary amount by the original deadline to avoid penalties.

Is There Anything Else I Need to Know About Filing a Tax Extension for Arizona?

Remember that an extension gives you more time to file, not to pay. Paying your taxes by the original deadline is crucial to avoid penalties and interest.

Summary of Arizona State Revenue Data

Total Gross Revenue Collected: 

Arizona collected $28.4 billion in gross revenue for the fiscal year outlined. The bulk of this revenue came from the Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) of $18 billion. Individual income taxes contributed $7.8 billion, followed by corporate taxes at $2 billion. Other revenue sources accounted for $0.6 billion, rounding out the total.

Total Revenue Distributed: 

Arizona distributed the Fiscal 2023 revenue of $28.4 billion as follows: $15.6 billion to state agencies, $7.2 billion to cities, and both counties and taxpayer refunds received $2.8 billion each. This distribution reflects a balanced allocation across various sectors in the state.

Conclusion

Filing a tax extension in Arizona is a straightforward process that provides extra time to file your return. Remember that the extension doesn’t apply to the payment deadline, so be sure to pay at least 90% of your tax liability by April 15th, 2026 to avoid penalties.

Work with Our Experts!

While state tax extensions can be simple, navigating federal tax extensions can be tricky. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone - work with our tax experts to ensure everything is filed correctly and on time. Get started today with your Arizona Tax Extension.