Form 8868: Automatic Extension of Time To File


Form 8868, which is the form used to file for an extension of time to submit Form 990 for tax-exempt organizations, grants an automatic 3 month addition to the filing deadline. Form 8868 deadlines are the same as Form 990 deadlines, which are the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of an organization’s accounting period. Any tax-exempt organization may file for an extension, no explanation is necessary.

A second extension (Part II) of time may be granted, however, it is not automatic and may require explanation. You can only e-file a second (non-automatic) extension if you have e-filed Part I (automatic extension of time) of Form 8868. The extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay any taxes due and failure to remit these taxes may result in penalties and fees.

Since the 1st extension is automatic (and there is no penalty for filing on time even if you have submitted a Form 8868) the IRS recommends filing for an extension if the organization believes it will have difficulty filing by the deadline for any reason. The information required to file Form 8868 doesn’t really vary from the 990 itself. The filer will list important organization and principal officer details, but they won’t need to give specific financial information. Please note: An automatic & non-automatic extension of time to file cannot be transmitted to the IRS at the same time.

So how do you start? 
Simply navigate to ExpressExtension.com and create your free account. Once you’ve done that, you will begin with your first extension form. Select “Form 8868” and start filling in the details. The process is easy and you could receive your accepted return in as little as 15 minutes from the IRS. Our customer support specialists are available from 8 AM to 6 PM EST Monday through Friday via phone, email, and chat support. We’ll even be up until midnight PST on the filing deadline! You can contact ExpressExtension at 803.514.5155 or email them at [email protected].


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