How to File a Business Tax Extension with Form 7004

Key Takeaways

• • Partnerships and S-Corps file extensions by March 15; C-Corps by April 15.
• • Form 7004 extends your time to file, not your time to pay taxes.
• • Always keep proof of timely filing to avoid IRS penalties.

Understanding Form 7004

If your business won’t be ready to file taxes on time, Form 7004 lets you extend your deadline. Partnerships and S-Corporations must submit it by March 15, while C-Corporations have until April 15. If the due date falls on a weekend or holiday, it automatically shifts to the next business day.

Information You’ll Need

You’ll be required to provide: Business name, address, and EIN; Applicable tax form code (1065 for partnerships, 1120S for S-Corps, 1120C for C-Corps); Tax year dates (or partial-year start and end if it’s your first year).

How to Complete Key Sections

Partnerships and S-Corps: Report zero for lines 6–8 since they are pass-through entities. C-Corporations: Estimate taxes owed on line 6, enter prior payments on line 7, and calculate balance due on line 8. Note: Payment is still due by the original deadline. Extensions do not apply to payments.

Proof of Timely Filing

Always get a USPS postmark or certified mail receipt if mailing. This protects you from failure-to-file penalties. Keep a copy for your records.

Mailing Addresses

Where you send Form 7004 depends on your entity type, the form you normally file, and your state. The IRS website provides a full mailing address list.

Next Step

Need help filing your extension correctly? Schedule your free consultation today and we’ll guide you step-by-step.