Form 7004 FAQ

Does Form 7004 need a signature?

No. The instructions say no signature is required. More.

Will the IRS confirm my extension?

No. The IRS no longer sends approval notices. It writes only if your request is disallowed. If you e-file, you get an acknowledgment. More.

Can one Form 7004 cover several returns?

No. File a separate Form 7004 for each return. Each one covers only the return named on line 1. More.

Is it too late to file Form 7004?

Not if today is the due date: a paper Form 7004 is on time if it's postmarked today, and an e-filed one goes by the date in your time zone. Once the original due date has passed, it's too late. File the return as soon as you can and pay what you owe, because the late-filing penalty grows each month. More.

Does Form 7004 extend my state return?

No. It covers your federal return only. Many states accept your federal extension; others need their own form. More.

Can I e-file Form 7004 for free?

Not through the IRS. Its Free File program covers Form 4868 for individuals, not Form 7004. You can fill out Form 7004 free here and mail it. More.

Does Form 7004 give me more time to pay?

No. Pay what you expect to owe by the original due date. More.

How long is the extension?

Generally 6 months. Trusts and estates get 5 1/2 months. Some June 30 C corporations get 7. More.

What if I picked the wrong form code?

The extension applies only to the return identified on line 1. If you catch it before the due date, file a corrected Form 7004 with the right code. More.

My business name changed. Which name do I use?

The name on last year's return. If the name doesn't match IRS records, the extension isn't valid. More.

Do I use an EIN or a Social Security number?

The identifying number for the return: an EIN for most businesses, trusts and estates. The instructions allow an SSN where that's the filer's number. More.

I'm a sole proprietor. Do I use Form 7004?

No. Sole proprietors file Form 1040 and use Form 4868. More.

Does my LLC use Form 7004?

If it files Form 1065, 1120-S or 1120, yes. A one-owner LLC owned by a person, with no election, uses Form 4868. More.

Where do I mail Form 7004?

One of four IRS addresses, depending on your return, location and sometimes total assets. More.

Do I have to give a reason for the extension?

No. The extension is automatic if you file the form properly, estimate the tax and file on time. More.

I mailed Form 7004. Can I e-file the return?

Yes, but if the return is processed before the extension is granted, you may get a penalty notice. More.

Can the IRS end my extension early?

Yes. It can terminate the extension by mailing a notice at least 10 days before the termination date. More.

Is Form 7004 the same as Form 4868?

No. Form 7004 is for business, information and other returns. Form 4868 is for individual returns. More.