File Your Business Tax Extension Before the 2025 Deadline

To request more time for filing your business tax return, you need to submit IRS Form 7004. This form is used by C corporations, S corporations, partnerships, and multi-member LLCs taxed as entities.

Form 7004 grants an automatic 6-month extension to file your return, as long as it’s submitted by the original deadline. However, the extension only applies to filing, not payment. You’re still required to estimate and pay any tax due by the original due date to avoid penalties and interest.

This guide covers who should file Form 7004, when it’s due, and how to file it accurately and on time.

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Deadlines for Business Tax Extension Filing

To receive the 6-month extension, you must file Form 7004 by the original due date of your business tax return. Filing late, even by one day, voids the extension and exposes you to penalties.

For calendar-year businesses, the key 2025 deadlines are:

• March 17, 2025 – For S corporations and partnerships
• April 15, 2025 – For C corporations

If your business follows a fiscal year, the deadline to file Form 7004 is the 15th day of the fourth month after your fiscal year ends.

Once accepted, the extension gives you 6 additional months to file your return. For example:

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Note - This extension does not move your payment deadline. You must pay any estimated tax due by the original filing date to avoid late payment charges.

How to File a Business Tax Extension with Inkle

Inkle simplifies the process of filing IRS Form 7004. Instead of dealing with IRS instructions, PDF forms, or mailing delays, you can file securely in just a few steps without needing a tax background.

Here’s how the process works:

Step 1. Enter your business details

Start by selecting the entity you're filing for: C corporation, S corporation, partnership, or LLC. Then enter your 

i) Employer Identification Number (EIN), 

ii) Tax year information

iii) Business name 

exactly as registered with the IRS. The platform validates this data to reduce rejections due to minor mismatches.

Step 2. Estimate your total tax due

Before submitting Form 7004, the IRS requires you to estimate your total tax liability for the year. Inkle helps you calculate this using past filings, current financials, or imported accounting data. You can also enter this manually if you prefer.

Step 3. Review and auto-complete Form 7004

Once your inputs are in, Inkle fills out Form 7004 on your behalf. Built-in logic ensures your data is correctly matched to the right IRS codes and fields. You can preview the full form before submission and download a copy for your records.

Step 4. File electronically, directly to the IRS

When you’re ready, submit your extension request through Inkle’s secure e-filing system. There's no need to print, sign, or mail anything. You receive an immediate confirmation once the IRS accepts your submission.

Step 5. Pay estimated taxes alongside your extension (optional)

If you owe tax and want to avoid late payment penalties, you can make an estimated payment through Inkle during the same session. The platform offers integrated payment options so everything is handled at once.

Step 6. Get reminders and track compliance

After filing, Inkle automatically tracks your new extended deadline. You’ll receive reminders when your final return is due and get visibility into other upcoming compliance tasks through your dashboard.

With Inkle, you can file your taxes within minutes while reducing the risk of errors or missed deadlines.

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Why Choose Inkle for Filing

Inkle isn’t just a filing tool, it’s a compliance partner built for modern finance teams. When you use Inkle to manage your tax extensions, you get speed, accuracy, and support in one place.

Here’s what sets it apart:

i) Expert support, available when you need it

Get answers from real experts—whether it’s your first time filing or you’re managing multiple entities.

ii) One dashboard for all deadlines

Track filings, payments, and compliance milestones in one place—no spreadsheets or calendar chaos.

iii) Secure document storage and autofill

Upload once, use across filings. Inkle pulls in past data to save you time with every submission.

iv) Timely reminders and peace of mind

Get proactive alerts so you never miss a filing or payment deadline.

Need a better way to manage your compliance calendar? Schedule a demo to see how Inkle helps streamline business tax extension filings from start to finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I miss the deadline to file Form 7004?

If you don’t file Form 7004 by the original due date of your return, you lose the right to an automatic extension. The IRS may apply late-filing penalties and interest if your return is submitted late.

2. Does filing Form 7004 extend the time to pay my business taxes?

No. The extension only gives you more time to file the return, not to pay the tax. You must estimate and pay what you owe by the original due date to avoid penalties and interest.

3. Can I file Form 7004 electronically or do I have to mail it?

You can file Form 7004 electronically using Inkle or any IRS-authorized e-file provider. Electronic filing is faster, more accurate, and provides confirmation of receipt.

4. What information do I need to complete Form 7004?

You’ll need your EIN, tax year details, business entity type, and an estimate of total tax due. You don’t need to explain why you’re requesting an extension.

5. Is a separate extension required for state business taxes?

Yes. Most states have their own rules and forms for tax extensions. Filing Form 7004 with the IRS does not automatically extend your state filing deadlines.