Minnesota Tax Extension: How to File and Avoid Penalties

Running out of time to file your Minnesota state taxes?

Don't worry.

Minnesota has a simple extension process that gives you more time. But an extension to file doesn't mean an extension to pay.

Here's everything you need to know about getting a Minnesota tax extension, with deadlines, credits, and deductions.

What is a Minnesota State Tax Extension?

An extension gives you more time to file your state tax return, which is helpful if you still need to gather paperwork. Minnesota offers a 6-month automatic extension for personal income tax returns. But remember, taxes owed must still be paid by the original due date, April 15th. If not paid by this date, penalties and interest will apply.

Minnesota Extension Deadlines

When is the Extension Deadline?

The extension deadline in Minnesota is the same as the federal deadline, April 15th. All Minnesota taxpayers automatically have until October 15 to file their return. No form, federal extension, or payment is required to extend the filing deadline.

Do I Need to File a Separate Minnesota Tax Extension?

No, you do not need to file a federal or state extension form. All Minnesota taxpayers automatically receive a 6-month extension to file.

New Deadlines After Filing a Minnesota Tax Extension

If you need more time to file, Minnesota gives you an automatic extension until October 15. No filing is needed. However, remember that any payment due for the state taxes is still required by April 15th, regardless of the extension.

How to Request an Extension in Minnesota

Filing a Minnesota Tax Extension

Minnesota automatically gives all taxpayers until October 15 to file. There’s no need to file any forms to receive a Minnesota extension. However, you must still pay at least 90% of your total tax liability by April 15th to avoid late payment penalties.

Steps to Pay Minnesota State Taxes by the Deadline

1. Estimate Your Tax Liability: Calculate your Minnesota taxes owed based on your income and other relevant factors.
2. Make a Payment: Ensure you have paid at least 90% of your tax liability by April 15th. You can do this through the Minnesota Department of Revenue's website or by mailing a check.
3. Minnesota’s extension is automatic and independent of any federal filing.
4. File Your Return by October 15th: Use the extra time to finalize your return, ensuring you gather all relevant paperwork and deductions to file an accurate return.

2025 Minnesota Deductions and Credits

Deductions to Save You Money

Minnesota has several deductions that can save you money. Here are the top ones for 2025:

• Medical Insurance Contributions: $1.66 billion. Make sure to include all qualifying premiums.
• Home Mortgage Interest Deduction: $107 million. If you own a home, this will help reduce your tax burden.
• Charitable Contributions: $104.9 million. Gather all your receipts for donations.

By filing an extension, you'll have more time to gather the documentation for these deductions and potentially save hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Credits to Reduce Your Tax Bill

Unlike deductions, credits reduce the amount of tax you owe. Here are the top credits for Minnesota in 2025:

• Working Family Credit: $268 million. If you qualify, your tax bill will be reduced.
• Child and Dependent Care Credit: $21.7 million. This is for families with childcare expenses.

Taking extra time to file may help you gather the paperwork needed to claim these credits accurately.

Let Us Help!

Filing an extension and getting it right can be a headache, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether you need help with federal or state extensions, our team is here to help. Work with our tax pros today to file your taxes correctly and on time. Get started now!

FAQs

Do I have to pay my Minnesota taxes when I file an extension?

Yes. You must pay at least 90% of your Minnesota taxes by April 15th to avoid late payment penalties. However, interest will still accrue on any unpaid balance.

Who can file an extension in Minnesota?

All Minnesota taxpayers automatically have until October 15 to file their return. No form, federal extension, or payment is required to extend the filing deadline.

What are the late filing penalties?

The late filing penalty is 5% of the unpaid tax not filed by October 15th, 2025.

What happens if I pay my Minnesota taxes late?

The late payment penalty is:

• 4% of tax not paid by April 15th, and
• an additional 5% if that tax is not paid within 180 days of April 15th or the filing date (whichever is later).

Bottom Line

Filing an extension in Minnesota is easy—no forms or federal filings are required. All taxpayers automatically receive an extension until October 15 to file.

Keep in mind that the extension gives you more time to file, but you must pay by April 15th to avoid penalties and interest.

Using deductions and credits like the Working Family Credit and Medical Insurance Contributions will reduce your tax bill.

An extension is a good idea if you need more time to gather documents.

You don't have to do it alone when it comes to extensions, both state and federal.

Not Sure What to Do Next?

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Our step-by-step software simplifies the process. Get started with your free account today!