This article will step you through the process of filing an automatic extension for business tax returns, ensuring timely compliance with the IRS
Resources:
IRS Website: Where to file 7004 link is here
Key Steps
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Determine Filing Deadline
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Confirm that all business tax returns are due on March 15th for the upcoming tax year (e.g., March 18, 2025, for 2024 tax year). *C-Corps are due on 4/15
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Gather Required Information
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Company Name
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Employer Identification Number (EIN)
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Business Address (City, State, Zip Code)
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Determine your business entity type (Partnership, C Corporation, S Corporation).
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Complete IRS Form 7004
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Access Form 7004 (Automatic Extension of Time to File Certain Business Income Tax, Information, and Other Returns).
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Fill in the following:
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Part 1: Enter your business information:
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Name of the business
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EIN (ensure accuracy)
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Address
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Entity Type: Select the correct entity type and corresponding form code:
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Partnership: Code 09
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C Corporation: Code 11 (Due on 4/15/2024)
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S Corporation: Code 25
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Accounting Year: Indicate the accounting year (e.g., 24 for the calendar year 2024).
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Line 6: Enter zero for partnerships and S Corporations (no tax owed).
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If applicable: C Corporations may need to calculate tentative tax.
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Determine Filing Location
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Refer to the IRS table for mailing addresses based on your state and form type.
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For Texas, mail to:
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Department of Treasury
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Internal Revenue Service
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Utah, 84120-0045
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Mail the Completed Form
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Use the United States Postal Service or a UPS store.
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Opt for a return receipt to confirm mailing and keep proof of submission.
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Retain Documentation
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Keep copies of the completed form and the receipt with the tracking number as proof of timely filing.
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Cautionary Notes
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Ensure that all information entered on Form 7004 is accurate to avoid delays or penalties.
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Confirm that the form is mailed before the deadline to avoid late filing penalties.
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If you have not signed the engagement letter with your tax preparer, this process must be completed independently.