You should not panic. If you are unable to file a timely or accurate return, then you need to file an extension.

It's safe, easy, and accurate. The error rate of an e-filed return is less than 1 percent. The error rate of paper returns is 20 percent.

The penalty for failing to pay is much smaller than the penalty for failing to file.

It's not unprecedented, but it's not common. I've been doing this job since 1997, and I'm not aware of a bonus being offered in this area.

You can't get the refund if you don't file a return.

The number of extensions goes up every year. We expect more people to procrastinate.