Intuit Academy Tax Practice Exam

Form 4868 is specifically designed to request an automatic extension of time to file a tax return. When taxpayers complete and submit this form, they inform the IRS that they need additional time to prepare their tax documents, typically providing an automatic six-month extension. It is important to note that while this extends the filing deadline, any taxes owed must still be paid by the original due date to avoid penalties and interest.

The other options do not accurately represent the purpose of Form 4868. It does not serve as an application for a tax refund, it is not used for reporting capital gains, and it has no provisions for changing filing status. Thus, the primary function of Form 4868 remains focused on giving taxpayers more time to fulfill their filing obligations.