WASHINGTON -- It may not be any easier, but taxpayers will have additional time to file their returns this year.

Not only do taxpayers have two or three extra days to file, they also can ask for the first time for an automatic six-month extension.

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PDF: IRS Application for Automatic Filing Extension

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Nearly 88 million taxpayers have filed their returns, but that leaves millions more working to meet the deadline -- Monday for most people.

"If you haven't finished your return, don't panic," said IRS Commissioner Mark Everson. "Just file an extension, either by e-file or by mail."

The Internal Revenue Service expects 9.6 million to miss the mark in April and request an automatic filing extension until Oct. 16.

But they have to pay their taxes now.

The IRS said those who owe taxes can make a payment when they file the extension either by mailing a check or by several electronic payment methods such as electronic funds withdrawals from bank accounts and credit card payments.

The deadline for requesting an automatic extension is the same as the tax filing deadline.

The IRS this year gave taxpayers an extra weekend to finish their work because April 15 falls on a Saturday.

The tax agency pushed the traditional deadline back to April 17 for most taxpayers.

The IRS reminds taxpayers to give their return a thorough check before filing to avoid problems.

Verify the accuracy of Social Security numbers, double-check mathematical computations, sign and date the return and make sure to attach the correct forms and statements.