How to prepare and file extensions in ProConnect Tax

This article will help you view, print, and e-file extensions, as well as transmitting extensions for filers abroad.

Table of contents:

How do I e-file an extension?

1. Open a return.
2. Select the Profile tab.
3. Select the e-file box for both the respective Return and Extension boxes (federal and state, if applicable).
   • If no extension checkbox is available, that agency isn't supported for e-filed extensions at this time.
4. Go to the File Return tab.
5. Select E-file Extension from the left menu.
6. Clear any extension critical diagnostics.
7. Select e-file Now.

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To e-file after 4/15 for filers abroad:

Scenario 1 - Filing by 6/15, no additional extension required

1. Go to Payments, Penalties & Extensions and select the Extensions (4868, 2350) screen.
2. Scroll down to the Extension Pursuant to Regulation 1.6081-5(a) section.
3. Make an entry to indicate your client's tax home was outside the U.S. on 4/15.

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Scenario 2 - If also applying for the 4-month extension

Certain taxpayers who are out of the country on the tax deadline have until 6/15 to request an extension using Form 4868. To e-file these extensions after the original tax deadline, you must verify that box 8 of the form is checked, and that your client's tax home isn't listed as a U.S. address.

1. Go to Payments, Penalties & Extensions and select the Extensions (4868, 2350) screen.
2. Enter a 1 in 1=automatic extension, 2=blank (MANDATORY).
3. Scroll down to the Extension Pursuant to Regulation 1.6081-5(a) section.
4. Make an entry to indicate your client's tax home was outside the U.S. on 4/15.
5. On the left-side menu, select General and click on the Client Information screen.
6. Verify that your client's complete foreign address is entered here. The program won't allow you to transmit an extension after 4/15 for a client with a domestic address.

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To generate and print Form 4868 for an individual:

1. Go to the Input Return tab.
2. On the left-side menu, select Payments, Penalties & Extensions.
3. Select Extensions (4868/2350).
4. Enter a 1 in 1=automatic extension, 2=blank (MANDATORY).
5. Go to the Check Return tab and verify the information printing on Form 4868.

We strongly recommend saving a copy of the 4868 when the extension is filed to preserve any amount due or amounts paid with the extension.

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How to generate a business extension to print or paper file

To generate an extension in a 1065 return (Partnership):

1. Go to the Input Return tab.
2. Go to the General section to expand.
3. Select Automatic Extension (7004).
4. Enter a 1 in the field, Print extension: 1=1065, 2=8804, 3=both.

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To generate an extension in an 1120 return (Corporation):

1. Go to the Input Return tab
2. Go to the Payments, Penalties & Extensions section and expand that.
3. Select Extension (7004).
4. Make an entry in the field, 1=automatic extension, 2=blank (MANDATORY)

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To generate an extension in an 1120S return (S Corporation):

1. Go to the Input Return tab.
2. Go to the Payments, Penalties & Extensions section and expand that.
3. Select Extension of Time to File (7004).
4. Make an entry in the field, 1=automatic extension, 2=blank (MANDATORY).

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To generate an extension in a 990 return (Exempt organization):

1. Go to the Input Return tab.
2. Go to the Payments, Penalties & Extensions section and expand that.
3. Select Extension.
4. Make an entry in the field, 1=automatic extension, 2=blank (MANDATORY).

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To generate an extension in a 1041 return (Fiduciary, Estate and trust):

1. Go to the Input Return tab.
2. Go to the Payments, Penalties & Extensions section and expand that.
3. Select Extension (7004/8868).
4. Check the box for Form 1041, Form 1041-A and Form 5227: Print applicable extension request (7004 or 8868).
5.  If filing Form 7004, complete the Form 1041 and Grantor Form 1041: Automatic Extension of Time to File (7004) section.

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To access the extension for a state attached to a business return:

• Once you have added the state in the Profile section, state extension data will appear under the same extension section as the 7004 and can be edited here.

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Related topics:

• Electronic filing deadlines and perfection periods for individual returns and extensions (1040, 1040SR, 1040NR)
• Electronic filing deadlines and perfection periods for business returns and extensions (1120, 1120S, 1065, 1041)
• 1040 state extension frequently asked questions