If the looming April 15 tax deadline has you stressed, take a deep breath—you have time and options.

Every year, many clergy rush to file by the deadline, often missing key deductions, making costly errors, or settling for a hurried filing experience. However, here’s the truth: filing a tax extension can be a strategic advantage, rather than a red flag or a sign of failure.

Clergy Financial Resources now has an easy option to file your extension. Click the link below and complete the request form.  Once this information is submitted, we’ll file your extension and send you an email confirmation on April 15, 2025.

2024 Tax Extension Request

Here’s why extending your return might be the smartest move you make this tax season.

Filing an extension grants individual taxpayers an additional six months (until October 15) to complete their returns. This extra time allows you to:

• More time to consult with a clergy tax professional: Gain expert advice to optimize your return.
• Avoid the stress of last-minute filing: Reduce anxiety and ensure accuracy. 
• Plan for future tax strategies: Use the extra time to strategize for next year’s taxes.
• Double-check for errors: Minimize the risk of mistakes that could lead to audits.
• Consider tax-saving opportunities: Explore options like retirement contributions or charitable donations.

These steps can help you make the most of the extended deadline and potentially save money in the long run.

When you’re racing against the clock, it’s easy to miss out on tax-saving opportunities. Most clergy remember to report their income, but they often forget about deductions.

The IRS does not penalize you for filing late if you submit a proper extension. Penalties only apply to unpaid taxes, so estimating and paying what you owe by April 15 helps you avoid most additional charges.

Let’s be clear: a tax extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay.

If you found yourself unable to meet the document deadline in March, or unable to complete your 2024 federal tax return by the April 15th deadline, you’ll first need to file an extension with the IRS to avoid any potential late filing or late payment penalties. 

Estimating Your Tax Payment for an Extension

You don’t need to overthink it. Start with what you owed last year and adjust based on whether your income increased or decreased. If your estimate is within 10% of your actual tax bill, any interest or penalty will be minimal. Just don’t ignore it—send in a payment to avoid larger penalties.

• 2024 Tax Extension Request

Clergy Financial Resources serves as a resource for clients to help analyze the complexity of clergy tax law, church payroll & HR issues. Our professionals are committed to helping clients stay informed about tax news, developments and trends in various specialty areas.

This article is intended to provide readers with guidance in tax matters. The article does not constitute, and should not be treated as professional advice regarding the use of any particular tax technique. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information. Clergy Financial Resources and the author do not assume responsibility for any individual’s reliance upon the information provided in the article. Readers should independently verify all information before applying it to a particular fact situation, and should independently determine the impact of any particular tax planning technique. If you are seeking legal advice, you are encouraged to consult an attorney.

For more information or if you need additional assistance, please use the contact information below.

Clergy Financial Resources
11214 86th Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369

Tel: (888) 421-0101 
Fax: (888) 876-5101
Email: clientservices@clergyfinancial.com