What does an extension mean?
Guidelines for what is involved in extending returns
What does filing an “extension” do?
An extension is a form filed with the IRS to request additional time to file your federal tax return. The extension period is six months, which extends the due date for submitting your final returns from April 15 to Oct. 15.
In some states, filing an extension with the IRS will automatically extend the time to complete a state income tax return.• Filing an extension grants you additional time to submit your complete and accurate return, but you still need to estimate whether you will owe any taxes and pay that estimated balance by April 15.*
Extending your return allows you and your CPA more time to prepare your tax return to ensure the filing of an accurate tax return. In many cases, you may still be waiting for additional information (e.g., Schedule K-1, corrected 1099s, etc.) to complete your return.
Why does my CPA suggest we extend my tax return?
If your CPA has recommended that you file an extension, it may be due to many reasons, such as:
The volume of data or complexity of certain transactions (e.g., sale of a rental property) on your return requires additional time.
The amount of time remaining in filing season is limited for the CPA to complete client returns by April 15 * due to late-arriving information.
Many CPAs have a “cutoff” or deadline for clients submitting their tax information so they can plan their workload to ensure all client returns and extensions are completed by April 15.*
Your CPA may suggest filing an extension if there are aspects of your return affected by pending guidance or legislation (expiring provisions that could be extended, for example).
Am I more likely to be audited if I extend?
Extending will NOT increase your likelihood of being audited by the IRS.
It is better to file an extension rather than to file a return that is incomplete or that you have not had time to review carefully before signing.
What are the primary benefits of extending my tax return?
It provides for additional time to file returns without penalty when you are waiting for missing information or tax documents (such as corrected 1099s). Just remember that an extension provides additional time to file, but no additional time to pay. Penalties maybe assessed if sufficient payment is not remitted with the extension.
You may qualify for additional retirement planning opportunities or additional time to fund certain types of retirement plans (e.g., SEP IRA).
It is often less expensive (and easier) to file an extension rather than rushing now, then possibly needing to amend your return later.
Should I do anything differently if I am filing and extension or “going on extension?”
No, you still should give your CPA whatever information you have as early as possible or as soon as it becomes available.
Expect to pay any anticipated taxes owed by April 15.* You still need to submit all available tax information to your CPA promptly so they can determine if you will have a balance due or if you can expect a refund.
If you are required to make quarterly estimated tax payments, your first quarter estimated tax payment is due April 15.* Your CPA may recommend that you pay the balance due for last year and your first quarter estimated tax payment for this year with your extension.
If you are anticipating a large refund, your CPA will likely try to get your extended return completed as soon as possible once all tax information is available. Your CPA may also want to discuss tax planning opportunities with you so that in future years, you don’t give the IRS an interest-free loan!
Is there anything I can do to avoid filing an extension if I know I am missing some information now?
If you know you will be waiting until the last minute for one or two documents, you may be able to minimize the chance of having to file an extension by providing all other available documents to your CPA as soon as you receive them. By doing so, your CPA can prepare a draft return for you to review and discuss in advance. And they may be able to add the missing piece of data or last-minute information and complete your returns by April 15.*
Have there been any changes to the due dates of returns for this year?
There are no due date changes for the 2019 tax year.
The due dates for certain business tax returns were changed for 2017.
The earlier due date of March 15 for partnerships/LLCs may increase the likelihood of filing your individual return by the original deadline.
* The federal filing deadline for 2019 returns will be April 15, 2020.
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