What Form 8868 (2015) Is For
IRS Form 8868 (2015) is an Internal Revenue Service document used by tax-exempt organizations to request additional time to file their annual information returns. In the 2015 tax year, this form allowed organizations such as charities, private foundations, and certain trusts to extend the due date for exempt organization returns.
This form applies to returns like Form 990, Form 990-EZ, Form 990-PF, Form 990-T, and Form 4720. It did not extend the time to pay any taxes due. Instead, it provided more time to prepare accurate reports. Organizations were still required to estimate and pay any taxes owed by the original due date to avoid penalties and interest.
When You’d Use Form 8868
An exempt organization would use Form 8868 to request an automatic extension of time to file its annual exempt organization return before the original due date. It is often needed when financial statements, audit results, or required documentation are not yet complete. Filing this form helps organizations avoid late penalties and maintain compliance with Internal Revenue Service requirements. It must be submitted before the original due date to qualify for the automatic extension.
Key Rules or Details for 2015
For the 2015 tax year, Form 8868 allowed an exempt organization to request two separate extensions: an automatic three-month extension and an additional three-month extension requiring reasonable cause. Large organizations filing 250 or more tax returns and possessing assets over $10 million were required to e-file. Smaller organizations could mail their request to the IRS Service Center in Ogden, Utah. The form extended only the time to file, not the time to pay, so all payments still had to be made by the original due date.
Step-by-Step (High Level)
Step 1: Gather Organizational Information
Collect the organization’s legal name, Employer Identification Number (EIN), address, and the beginning and ending dates of the tax year.
Step 2: Identify the Return Type
Select the specific return type being extended, such as Form 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF, or 990-T.
Step 3: Complete the Form
Enter all required identification information, including the correct return code, EIN, and applicable tax period.
Step 4: Calculate Tentative Tax Liability
If taxes may be owed, the organization must calculate and pay an estimated amount when submitting the extension request.
Step 5: Submit the Form
File Form 8868 on or before the original due date.
- Taxpayers must e-file when required by IRS rules.
- Taxpayers may mail or deliver the form through an IRS-approved private carrier if eligible.
Step 6: Request Additional Time (if needed)
If the organization still needs more time, it must file a second Form 8868 before the first extension expires. Include a detailed statement explaining the reason for the delay.
Step 7: Keep Records
Maintain proof of timely submission and acknowledgment of acceptance from the IRS. Retain these records permanently as part of the organization’s official tax history.
Learn more about federal tax filing through our IRS Form Help Center.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Filing Form 8868 requires accuracy and attention to deadlines. The following are frequent mistakes organizations should avoid:
- Filing after the deadline: The IRS does not accept late Form 8868 submissions, even if they are submitted one day after the deadline. Filing at least one week before the due date helps prevent rejection.
- Assuming the extension covers payment: Form 8868 extends only the filing deadline, not the payment deadline. Organizations should pay any estimated tax with the form to avoid penalties and interest.
- Submitting one form for multiple returns: Each return type requires its own Form 8868. Filing only one for various returns results in incomplete or invalid extensions.
- Using incorrect organization details: Providing the wrong EIN, outdated address, or mismatched organization name can cause delays or rejection. Always verify information with prior IRS records.
- Failing to e-file when required: Large organizations are required to e-file Form 8868. Submitting paper forms when e-filing is mandatory results in an unfiled extension.
- Missing the second extension window: The additional three-month extension must be filed before the first extension expires to avoid late penalties.
- Providing vague, reasonable cause statements: Vague explanations such as “need more time” will not be accepted. The IRS requires specific reasons, like delays in receiving audited reports or leadership transitions.
A careful review, timely filing, and complete documentation ensure that the IRS accepts the extension request without issues.
Learn more about how to avoid business tax problems in our guide on How to File and Avoid Penalties.
What Happens After You File
After submitting Form 8868, the Internal Revenue Service typically processes e-filed requests within 24 to 48 hours and provides electronic confirmation showing the new extended due date. Paper submissions may take up to three weeks, and the postmark date is considered the official filing date. During the extension period, the organization must continue preparing its exempt organization return to meet the new deadline. Failing to file by the extended date can lead to penalties, interest charges, and possible revocation of exempt status for repeated noncompliance.
FAQs
What is IRS Form 8868 (2015) used for?
IRS Form 8868 (2015) allows an exempt organization to request an automatic extension of time to file its annual exempt organization return. The Internal Revenue Service grants additional time to prepare tax information and avoid late filing penalties.
How long is the automatic extension for exempt organization returns?
The automatic extension for Form 8868 in 2015 provided an initial three-month period, with an option for an additional three-month extension if reasonable cause was shown. Filing before the original due date ensured the extension was granted.
Can taxpayers e-file IRS Form 8868 instead of mailing it?
Yes, the IRS required large corporations and businesses with 250 or more tax returns to e-file their returns. Smaller organizations could submit the form by mail, but electronic filing was encouraged for faster processing and confirmation of acceptance.
Does filing Form 8868 extend the time to pay taxes owed?
No, filing Form 8868 extends only the time to file your tax return, not the time to pay taxes. Taxpayers must calculate their balance, make a payment by the original due date, and avoid additional penalties or interest.
Who can request an extension using Form 8868?
Form 8868 applies to specific categories of taxpayers, including exempt organizations, trusts, and foundations that are required to file returns, such as Form 990 or Form 990-T. Corporations and partnerships must use other applicable forms for their federal extensions.
What happens if you file Form 8868 after the due date?
If Form 8868 is filed after the original due date, the Internal Revenue Service will deny the request. Late filings result in penalties, interest, and possible loss of tax-exempt status if the exempt organization repeatedly misses deadlines.
What should organizations do after they receive an extension?
After an extension is granted, organizations must prepare their tax return, calculate any payment due, and submit it by the extended filing date. Maintaining accurate records and confirming IRS acceptance helps ensure compliance and prevent future issues.
For more resources on filing or understanding prior-year IRS forms, visit our Form Summaries and Guides Library.
