How Long Is a Tax Extension?

April 9, 2025

If tax season crept up on you this year, you’re not alone. Whether you’re still waiting on paperwork, trying to get your numbers organized, or just need more time, the IRS gives you a solid option: a tax extension. But how long is a tax extension and what does it actually cover?

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Too Long; Didn’t Read

For individuals who file for a personal tax extension (using Form 4868), you get an additional 6 months to file your return (October 15th, assuming it does not fall on a weekend or holiday).
For S Corps and Partnerships, filing Form 7004 extends your deadline from March 15th to September 15th
For C Corps, filing Form 7004 extends the due date from April 15th to October 15th.

How Long Is a Tax Extension for Individuals?

When you file for a personal tax extension (using IRS Form 4868), you get an additional six months to file your return. So instead of the typical April 15 deadline, you now have until October 15 to file (assuming the 15th doesn’t fall on a weekend or holiday).

Here’s the catch: this is only an extension to file, not to pay. If you owe taxes, your payment is still due by April 15. If you don’t pay by then, the IRS may charge you penalties and interest – even if you file your return later with an approved extension.

So while you do get more time to finalize your documents, it’s important to estimate and submit any payments by the original April deadline.

Business Tax Extensions: What You Need to Know

Depending on your business structure, the length of your tax extension varies slightly:

S Corporations and Partnerships: File Form 7004 to extend your deadline from March 15 to September 15.
C Corporations: Also file Form 7004; if your fiscal year ends December 31, your extension moves the due date from April 15 to October 15.

Just like with individual returns, business tax extensions don’t give you more time to pay, only more time to file. Estimated payments are still expected on time.

What About State Tax Extensions?

Some states automatically grant you an extension if you’ve filed a federal one, while others require a separate form. The rules and deadlines vary, so it’s important to check your state’s specific requirements.

Not sure where your state stands? We can help with that.

Don’t Let These Common Mistakes Cost You

Every year, we see people assume they’ve bought themselves more time to figure everything out. A few quick reminders:

An extension delays filing, not paying.
Skipping the estimated payment can lead to penalties.
Forgetting the state extension can mean double the trouble.

If you’re feeling unsure, don’t guess. It’s better to ask for help early than pay more later.

JBS Corp Can Help You File a Tax Extension

Need to file an extension, fast? At JBS Corp, we help individuals and businesses handle tax extensions the right way – with no guesswork, no last-minute panic, and no missed deadlines.