The IRS 8868 form is an application for an automatic extension of time to file an exempt organization's return. This form allows nonprofits and other tax-exempt entities additional time to compile their necessary financial and operational information accurately. For those seeking to ensure compliance without rushing, clicking the button below to fill out the form is the first step towards peace of mind.
Every year, countless organizations face the ticking clock of tax season with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. Amid the flurry of documents and deadlines, the IRS 8868 form emerges as a beacon of relief for tax-exempt organizations needing a bit more time to get their affairs in order. This form is essentially a request for an automatic 6-month extension to file the organization's return, giving breathing room to those who find themselves up against the wall come filing day. It's a straightforward process, yet the implications of correctly filing this form are significant, ensuring organizations remain in good standing without the stress of rushing through their tax preparations. Whether grappling with unexpected delays or simply requiring extra time for meticulous record-keeping, understanding the 8868 form is crucial for any tax-exempt entity looking to navigate tax season with confidence and compliance.
Form 8868
(Rev. January 2022)
Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service
Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File an
Exempt Organization Return
▶File a separate application for each return.
▶Go to www.irs.gov/Form8868 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0047
Electronic filing (e-file). You can electronically file Form 8868 to request a 6-month automatic extension of time to file any of the forms listed below with the exception of Form 8870, Information Return for Transfers Associated With Certain Personal Benefit Contracts, for which an extension request must be sent to the IRS in paper format (see instructions). For more details on the electronic filing of this form, visit www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/e-file-for-charities-and-non-profits.
Automatic 6-Month Extension of Time. Only submit original (no copies needed).
All corporations required to file an income tax return other than Form 990-T (including 1120-C filers), partnerships, REMICs, and trusts must use Form 7004 to request an extension of time to file income tax returns.
Type or
Name of exempt organization or other filer, see instructions.
Taxpayer identification number (TIN)
print
File by the
Number, street, and room or suite no. If a P.O. box, see instructions.
due date for
filing your
City, town or post office, state, and ZIP code. For a foreign address, see instructions.
return. See
instructions.
Enter the Return Code for the return that this application is for (file a separate application for each return)
Application
Return
Is For
Code
Form 990 or Form 990-EZ
01
Form 1041-A
08
Form 4720 (individual)
03
Form 4720 (other than individual)
09
Form 990-PF
04
Form 5227
10
Form 990-T (sec. 401(a) or 408(a) trust)
05
Form 6069
11
Form 990-T (trust other than above)
06
Form 8870
12
Form 990-T (corporation)
07
• The books are in the care of ▶
Telephone No. ▶
Fax No. ▶
•If the organization does not have an office or place of business in the United States, check this box . . . . .
•If this is for a Group Return, enter the organization’s four digit Group Exemption Number (GEN)
for the whole group, check this box . . . ▶
. If it is for part of the group, check this box . . . . ▶
a list with the names and TINs of all members the extension is for.
. . . . ▶
. If this is and attach
1
I request an automatic 6-month extension of time until
, 20
, to file the exempt organization return for
the organization named above. The extension is for the organization’s return for:
▶
calendar year 20
or
tax year beginning
, and ending
.
2
If the tax year entered in line 1 is for less than 12 months, check reason:
Initial return
Final return
Change in accounting period
3a
If this application is for Forms 990-PF, 990-T, 4720, or 6069, enter the tentative tax, less any
nonrefundable credits. See instructions.
3a $
bIf this application is for Forms 990-PF, 990-T, 4720, or 6069, enter any refundable credits and
estimated tax payments made. Include any prior year overpayment allowed as a credit.
3b $
cBalance due. Subtract line 3b from line 3a. Include your payment with this form, if required, by
using EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System). See instructions.
3c $
Caution: If you are going to make an electronic funds withdrawal (direct debit) with this Form 8868, see Form 8453-TE and Form 8879-TE for payment instructions.
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see instructions.
Cat. No. 27916D
Form 8868 (Rev. 1-2022)
Page 2
General Instructions
Section references are to the Internal Revenue Code unless otherwise noted.
Future Developments
For the latest information about developments related to Form 8868 and its instructions, such as legislation enacted after they were published, go to www.irs.gov/Form8868.
What’s New
Trusts required to file Form 990-T by the 15th day of the 4th month (April 15 for calendar year taxpayers) (including Employee plans, IRAs, SEPs, SIMPLEs, Coverdell ESA, and Archer MSA) should enter Return Code 05. Trusts required to file Form 990-T by the 15th day of the 5th month (May 15 for calendar year taxpayers) should enter Return Code 06.
Reminders
Automatic revocation. If an organization has not filed the required Form 990 series for 3 consecutive years, and if the due date (or extended due date) of the third year’s filing has passed, the tax-exempt status will be revoked to the original filing date. If you have received an approved extension from the IRS for filing your return, and have not filed your return with the IRS for 3 years (including during the approved extension period), please go to Automatic Revocation of Exemption at www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/ automatic-revocation-of-exemption for details on revocation and reinstatement for an exempt organization.
Taxpayer identification number. All users must enter their taxpayer identification number (TIN).
Return Code. A Return Code is assigned to each return type. Enter the Return Code of the form this application pertains to in the Return Code Box.
Electronic filing (e-file). Electronic filing can be used to request an extension of time to file each of the forms listed above (with the exception of Form 8870, applications for the extension of which must be sent in paper format to the address below).
If you are going to make an
▲
!
electronic funds withdrawal
(direct debit) with this Form
CAUTION
8868, see Form 8453-TE or
Form 8879-TE for payment instructions.
Purpose of Form
Form 8868 is used by an exempt organization to request an automatic
6-month extension of time to file its return.
Also, the trustee of a trust required to file Form 1041-A or Form 5227 must use Form 8868 to request an extension of time to file those returns. These instructions apply to such trusts unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
Use this form to apply for an automatic 6-month extension of time to file an organization’s return, and submit the original form to the IRS (no copies are needed).
The automatic 6-month extension will be granted if you properly complete this form, file it, and pay any balance due on line 3c by the due date for the return for which the extension applies.
You cannot use Form 8868 to
extend the due date of Form
990-N.
An organization will only be allowed an extension of 6 months for a return for a tax year.
When To File
File Form 8868 by the due date of the return for which you are requesting an extension.
Where To File
If you do not file electronically, send the application to:
Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service Center Ogden, UT 84201-0045
An application for extension of time to file Form 8870 must be sent in paper format to the address above.
Do not file for an extension of time by attaching Form 8868 to the exempt organization’s return when it is filed.
Filing Information
No blanket requests. File a separate Form 8868 for each return for which you are requesting an automatic extension of time to file. This extension will apply only to the specific return checked. It does not extend the time for filing any related returns. For example, an extension of time for filing a private foundation return will not apply to the return of certain excise taxes on charities (Form 4720).
Each Form 8868 filer who owes taxes for the year should file its own Form 8868, and pay only its share of the total tax liability due.
Exempt Organization Group Returns. A central organization may apply for an extension of time to file a group return. Enter the applicable Return Code and enter the Group Exemption Number (GEN) on the line provided. Check the applicable box to indicate whether the application applies to the whole group or part of the group. If the extension is not for all the organizations that are part of the group, you must
attach a schedule to Form 8868 showing the name, address, and taxpayer identification number of each organization that is included in this request for an extension.
Interest. Interest will be charged on any tax not paid by the regular due date of the return from the regular due date until the tax is paid. It will be charged even if the organization has been granted an extension or has shown reasonable cause for not paying on time.
Late payment penalty. Generally, a penalty of ½ of 1% of any tax not paid by the due date is charged for each month or part of a month that the tax remains unpaid. The penalty cannot exceed 25% of the amount due. The penalty will not be charged if you can show reasonable cause for not paying on time.
If you receive an extension of time to file, you will not be charged a late payment penalty if (a) the tax shown on line 3a (or the amount of tax paid by the regular due date of the return) is at least 90% of the tax shown on the return, and
(b)you pay the balance due shown on the return by the extended due date.
Late filing penalty. A penalty is charged if the return is filed after the due date (including extensions) unless you can show reasonable cause for not filing on time.
Different late filing penalties apply to information returns. See the specific form instructions for details.
Reasonable cause determinations. If you receive a notice about penalties after you file your return, send an explanation and we will determine if you meet reasonable cause criteria. Do not attach an explanation when you file your return. Explanations attached to the return at the time of filing will not be considered.
Tax Payments
General rule. Each tax-exempt organization must make all federal tax deposits (including excise and income taxes) electronically. You can use the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to make federal tax deposits. If you do not wish to use EFTPS, you can make arrangements through your tax professional, financial institution, payroll service, or other trusted third party to make deposits on your behalf.
EFTPS is a free service provided by the Department of the Treasury. If you choose to use a tax professional, financial institution, payroll service, or other third party to make federal tax deposits on your behalf, you may be charged a fee for this service.
Page 3
Visit www.eftps.gov, or call 1-800-555-4477 for information about EFTPS. Additional information about EFTPS is also available in Pub. 966, Electronic Federal Tax Payment System: A Guide to Getting Started.
Specific Instructions
Extending the time to file does TIP not extend the time to pay tax.
Name of exempt organization or other filer. The filer may be an exempt organization, a nonexempt organization (for example, a disqualified person or a foundation manager trustee), or an individual. The typical filer will be an exempt organization. Certain filers may not be an exempt organization. For example, Form 4720 filers may be one of the other entities listed above.
Address. Include the suite, room, or other unit number after the street address. If the Post Office does not deliver mail to the street address and the exempt organization has a P.O. box, show the box number instead of the street address.
If the organization receives its mail in care of a third party (such as an accountant or an attorney), enter on the street address line “C/O” followed by the third party’s name and street address or P.O. box.
If the address is outside the United States or its possessions or territories, in the space for “city or town, state, and ZIP code,” enter the information in the following order: city, province or state, and country. Follow the country’s practice for entering the postal code. Do not abbreviate the country’s name.
If the organization’s mailing address has changed since it filed its last return, use Form 8822, Change of Address, to notify the IRS of the change. A new address shown on Form 8868 will not update the organization’s record.
Enter the Return Code for the type of return to be filed. Enter the appropriate Return Code in the box to indicate the type of return for which you are requesting an extension. Enter only one Return Code. You must file a separate Form 8868 for each return.
Exempt organizations such as corporations, private foundations, and trusts must enter their taxpayer identification number. Individuals must also enter their taxpayer identification number.
Line 1. The date that is entered on line 1 cannot be later than 6 months from the original due date of the return.
Line 2. If you checked the box for change in accounting period, you must have applied for approval to change the organization’s tax year unless certain conditions have been met. See Form 1128, Application To Adopt, Change, or Retain a Tax Year, and Pub. 538, Accounting Periods and Methods, for details.
Note: All filers must complete lines 3a, b, and c, even if you are exempt from tax or do not expect to have any tax liability.
Line 3a. See the organization’s tax return and its instructions to estimate the amount of tentative tax reduced by any nonrefundable credits. If you expect this amount to be zero, enter -0-.
Line 3c. Balance due. Form 8868 does not extend the time to pay tax. To avoid interest and penalties, send the full balance due by the original due date of the return.
For information on EFTPS, see Tax Payments, above.
Note: Be sure to see any deposit rules that are in the instructions for the particular form you are getting an extension for to determine how payment must be made.
No signature is required for this form.
Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice. We ask for the information on this form to carry out the Internal Revenue laws of the United States. You are required to give us the information. We need it to ensure that you are complying with these laws and to allow us to figure and collect the right amount of tax. You are not required to provide the information requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Books or records relating to a form or its instructions must be retained as long as their contents may become material in the administration of any Internal Revenue law. Generally, tax returns and return information are confidential, as required by section 6103. However, certain returns and return information of tax exempt organizations and trusts are subject to public disclosure and inspection, as provided by section 6104. The time needed to complete and file this form will vary depending on individual circumstances. The estimated burden for tax exempt organizations filing this form is approved under OMB control number 1545-0047 and is included in the estimates shown in the instructions for their information return.
We may disclose this information to the Department of Justice for civil and criminal litigation, and to cities, states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. commonwealths and possessions for use in administering their tax laws. We may also disclose this information to other countries under a tax treaty, to federal and state agencies to enforce nontax criminal laws, or to federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies to combat terrorism.
If you have comments concerning the accuracy of these time estimates or suggestions for making this form simpler, we would be happy to hear from you. You can send us comments through www.irs.gov/FormComments. Or you can write to Internal Revenue Service, Tax Forms and Publications Division, 1111 Constitution Ave. NW, IR-6526, Washington, DC 20224. Do not send this form to this address. Instead, see Where To File, earlier.
Filling out the IRS Form 8868 might initially seem like navigating through a maze, but it's simpler than it sounds. The form is used by organizations seeking an extension of time to file their tax return. Despite the apprehension that often comes with tax-related paperwork, following a clear set of steps can help ease the process. Preparing beforehand and having all necessary information at your fingertips are key. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to help you accurately complete the form without unnecessary stress.
After the form is submitted, you've done your part for now. You can focus on gathering any additional information or documentation needed for your full tax return, without the pressure of the original deadline. Remember, an extension to file is not an extension to pay any taxes owed, so plan accordingly to avoid any potential penalties. Keep an eye on your calendar for the new due date, ensuring you’re prepared to complete the process when the time comes.
What is the IRS 8868 form used for?
The IRS 8868 form is an application that allows tax-exempt organizations, non-profit entities, and certain trusts to request an automatic 6-month extension of time to file their specific tax returns. It is crucial for organizations that need additional time to gather information, prepare their tax returns accurately, or comply with reporting requirements. The extension applied for with this form is automatic, meaning that the request will be granted without the need for additional documentation or explanation.
How do I know if my organization is eligible to use Form 8868?
Most tax-exempt organizations, including charities, non-profits, and certain trusts that file forms such as the 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF, 1041-A, 4720, or 6069, are eligible to use Form 8868. Organizations should check their specific filing requirements and the IRS guidelines to determine if Form 8868 is appropriate for their situation.
When is the Form 8868 due?
Form 8868 should be filed by the original due date of the organization's return. The original due date varies depending on the form you are required to file and your organization's tax year-end. Generally, the form must be filed before the 15th day of the 5th month after your organization’s accounting period ends. However, organizations should verify their specific due date based on their tax year and filing requirements.
Can Form 8868 be filed electronically?
Yes, Form 8868 can be filed electronically through the IRS e-file system. Many tax-exempt organizations and professionals prefer the electronic filing method as it is faster, more secure, and provides immediate confirmation of receipt. Organizations can also use the services of an authorized IRS e-file provider to submit their Form 8868 electronically.
Is there a fee to file Form 8868?
No, there is no IRS fee to file Form 8868. However, if you choose to file the form through a professional or use a software program, there may be a fee for those services. These costs vary by provider.
What information is needed to complete Form 8868?
To complete Form 8868, organizations will need their employer identification number (EIN), the tax year for which the extension is requested, the specific tax form they are requesting an extension for, and the name and address of the organization. Additionally, if applicable, organizations should estimate the total tax liability for the year and the amount of payments already made. It's important to have accurate information on hand to ensure the form is completed correctly.
What if my organization needs more time beyond the 6-month extension?
In general, the IRS grants a maximum of 6 months of extension time with Form 8868 and does not allow additional time beyond this period. Organizations should plan accordingly and use the 6-month extension to complete and file their returns. If special circumstances exist, contact the IRS directly to inquire about possible solutions, but be prepared that an extension beyond 6 months is rarely granted.
How will I know that my Form 8868 has been accepted?
If you file Form 8868 electronically, you will receive immediate electronic confirmation upon successful transmission and acceptance of the form by the IRS. For paper filings, the IRS does not typically send confirmation of acceptance. It's important to ensure that the form is filed correctly and retained for your records as proof of submission. For added assurance, consider using certified mail or another tracking method when submitting Form 8868 by paper to provide confirmation of delivery.
One common mistake people make when filling out the IRS 8868 form, which is the application for the automatic extension of time to file an exempt organization's return, is failing to accurately calculate the tax due. Taxpayers often miss including all the necessary income or overlook eligible deductions, leading to errors in the amount of tax they report. Accurate calculation is essential because any discrepancy can lead to penalties or interest charges from the IRS.
Another mistake is not verifying the organization's identifying information, such as its Employer Identification Number (EIN) and legal name. It's crucial to ensure that all details match the records held by the IRS. If there are mismatches, it might delay the processing of the form or even lead to its rejection. Hence, reviewing these details before submission is vital.
A significant number of filers forget to sign and date the form. The IRS considers an unsigned form as incomplete, which can invalidate the request for an extension. It's a simple yet critical step in the submission process, and overlooking it can have consequences for the filing deadline.
People often miss the deadline for filing Form 8868 itself, mistakenly believing it extends beyond the original due date of the organization's return. However, this form must be filed by the original due date of the return to be valid. Missing this deadline can result in the inability to receive an extension, potentially leading to late filing penalties.
Incorrectly choosing the tax year for which the extension is sought is another error. Sometimes, filers either select the wrong tax year due to confusion over fiscal vs. calendar year designations or they simply make a typo. As the IRS needs to match the extension request with the correct filing period, such mistakes can prevent the successful processing of the extension.
Lastly, not using the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to pay any owed taxes with the extension request is a missed opportunity. Though not a 'mistake' in strict terms, taking advantage of the EFTPS to make payments when filing Form 8868 can help avoid potential interest and penalties for underpayment of estimated taxes. It's a useful tool for ensuring that all tax obligations are met on time.
The IRS 8868 form is well-known for its role in providing tax-exempt organizations the ability to request an extension of time to file their return. While this form is critical in its own right, several other documents often accompany or follow it in the filing process. These documents play pivotal roles in ensuring compliance with IRS regulations, facilitating accurate reporting, and maintaining the tax-exempt status of the organizations.
When submitting Form 8868, having a clear understanding of these accompanying documents and their respective roles significantly assists tax-exempt organizations in managing their filing responsibilities. By using these forms judiciously, organizations can ensure compliance with IRS requirements, maintain their exempt status, and contribute effectively to their respective causes.
The IRS 8868 form, specifically designed for applying for an extension of time to file an exempt organization return, shares similarities with several other documents in the realm of tax and organizational filings. One such document is the IRS Form 4868, which is used by individuals to request an extension of time to file their personal income tax returns. Both forms serve the primary function of requesting additional time for filing taxes, although for different types of taxpayers; 8868 for exempt organizations and 4868 for individuals.
Another document akin to the IRS 8868 is the IRS Form 7004, which is intended for business entities looking to get an extension on filing their tax returns. This form covers a range of business structures, including partnerships, corporations, and trusts. The similarity lies in the primary purpose of both forms: to request more time from the IRS to file the necessary tax documentation, albeit for different classes of taxpayers.
The IRS Form 8809, used for requesting an extension of time to file information returns, also aligns closely with the purpose of Form 8868. Information returns, such as W-2s or 1099s, are crucial for reporting various types of income and transactions. Both Form 8809 and Form 8868 help entities delay their filing obligations without immediate penalties, providing extra time to ensure accurate and complete submissions.
State-level extension forms, specific to each state's tax authority, have resemblances to the IRS 8868 form. For example, California's FTB 3567, the Extension Request for LLCs, Partnerships, and Corporations, parallels the federal 8868 form by offering state-level businesses extra time to file their state tax returns. Although these forms deal with state tax authorities rather than the federal IRS, their intention and use mirror that of the 8868's objective of granting filing extensions.
The IRS Form 1120-POL is another specific example that, while not an extension form itself, represents a related area of focus: tax filing for certain types of organizations. Political organizations utilize Form 1120-POL to file their annual income tax returns. Users of Form 8868 could potentially also have to deal with Form 1120-POL if managing the tax affairs of a political organization that requires an extension. The connection here is in the taxpayer demographic - exempt organizations and political entities navigating their tax reporting duties.
Lastly, the IRS Form 2350, aimed at U.S. citizens and resident aliens who expect to qualify for special tax treatment and need more time to file their personal income tax returns, shares a conceptual link with Form 8868. Both facilitate extended deadlines for tax submissions under specific conditions. While Form 2350 caters to individuals and Form 8868 to organizations, their underlying purpose of enabling an extended filing period ties them closely together.
These documents, each serving unique taxpayer needs, epitomize the broader tax administration's efforts to accommodate various filing circumstances. The IRS 8868 form, in conjunction with its counterparts, illustrates the array of tools available to manage and meet tax obligations in a timely and flexible manner.
When it comes to filling out the IRS 8868 form, which is designed for applying for an extension of time to file an exempt organization return, attention to detail and proper procedure is key. Below, you'll find a straightforward blend of dos and don'ts to help guide you through the process.
Do:
Don't:
Understanding the IRS Form 8868 and debunking common misconceptions can be crucial for organizations seeking extensions on their tax returns. Here are eight common misunderstandings:
Filling out and using the IRS 8868 form is essential for organizations seeking an extension on their tax returns. Here are five key takeaways to consider during the process:
By keeping these key points in mind, organizations can navigate the process of requesting an extension with the IRS Form 8868 more effectively, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
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