Learn how to file for an extension of time to complete your federal tax return.
Many businesses aren't able to gather all their documentation and file an accurate return by the deadline. If this situation applies to your business, you can file for a six-month automatic extension of time.
In this article we'll cover the tax filing deadlines and how you can file for an extension.
Or, if you want to file for a tax extension as an individual, see this TurboTax article.
Know your tax filing deadline
The deadline to file your federal tax return is based on your filing status:
Note: These dates generally stay the same year-over-year. If day 15 falls on a weekend, a legal holiday, or a special situation (for example: COVID), these due dates are delayed until the next business day.
- S corporation (S-corp) and partnership returns: March 15, 2021
- Corporate tax returns: April 15, 2021
- Individual tax returns: May 17, 2021
These filing deadlines also determine when the six-month extension of time to file ends (September 15 or October 15).
| Important: Even if you file for an extension, the due date for paying your taxes remains the same. If you don’t pay the amount due by the original due date, you’ll owe interest, and you may also incur penalties. |
File for a business tax return extension
If you need to file a tax extension for your business, file Form 7004.
This form requires you to select a code for the type of tax return your business files. You'll also need to enter a tentative total tax (estimated tax liability), your total payments, and your remaining estimated balance due.
For more details and other extension forms that may apply to your situation, see the IRS website.