# How do I file a tax extension for my business?

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:**

1. **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.
2. **IRS Free File:** request the automatic extension online. There is no income limit for extensions.
3. **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)](https://www.irs.gov/filing/get-an-extension-to-file-your-tax-return)
- Updated: 2026-10-29
- Published: 2026-10-29
- Category: Small business taxes
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