Should a 4868 be filed if the client expects a refund? If a refund is expected and client has none will a penalty be imposed?

[swelem]

Clients spouse passed and she is 92. Last few years clients had refunds. Due to age and other problems spouse needs an extension. Should a -0- 4868 be filed or should we take our chances?

[sjrcpa · Accepted solution]

I'd file it just to be safe.

[IRonMaN]

Better safe than sorry :+1:

[abctax55]

I would not *take my chances*.  Filing an extension is very easy, and the unknown is very scary. 

I did 2018 projections for a client...no tax, no estimates, all was good.  Until he showed up with 1099-B from his adviser who *re-balanced* the portfolio with consideration of tax consequences to the turn of $ 120,000 capital gains (S/T & L/T).