Use the form that matches your business type. Sole proprietors and single-member LLCs that file Form 1040 use Form 4868, which for the 2026 tax year moves the April 15, 2027 filing deadline to October 15, 2027. Partnerships, S corporations and corporations use Form 7004 for an automatic 6-month extension, so Forms 1065 and 1120-S move from March 15 to September 15, 2027. ProfitDrawer's 2027 tax deadlines guide lists each date.
Sole proprietor or single-member LLC (Form 1040 with Schedule C), three ways:
- Pay electronically and mark the payment as an extension. The IRS says you do not need a separate form and you get a confirmation number.
- IRS Free File: request the automatic extension online. There is no income limit for extensions.
- Form 4868: file by mail, through an e-file provider or a tax professional. You estimate your tax and subtract what you already paid.
Partnership, S corporation or corporation: file Form 7004, which can be e-filed, by the return's regular due date. For tax year 2026, Forms 1065 and 1120-S are due March 15, 2027, extended to September 15, 2027.
Before you file the extension:
- An extension gives more time to file, not to pay (see answer 26). Estimate the tax and pay it by the regular due date to limit penalties and interest.
- If a due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, it moves to the next business day (answer 27).
General information, not tax advice.
Source: Get an extension to file your tax return (IRS) · Updated
Tools and spreadsheets for this
Related questions
All questions on ProfitDrawer Answers →
General information, not tax, legal or financial advice. Check the rules for your state and your situation.