Can You File Form 8868 Electronically?

Yes! The IRS allows Form 8868 to be filed electronically, and e-filing is a convenient way to request an extension without preparing and mailing paper forms.

By choosing an online filing method, organizations can simplify the filing process, reduce avoidable errors, and receive electronic acknowledgment of their submission.

Here are some key benefits of filing Form 8868 electronically:

• Fewer filing errors: Online filing software can help identify missing required information and incorrect entries before submission, reducing the chances of avoidable IRS rejections.

• Faster processing and acknowledgment: Electronic returns are transmitted directly through the IRS e-file system, allowing filers to receive an IRS acceptance or rejection acknowledgment without waiting for postal delivery.

• Convenient online filing: Complete and submit your extension request from anywhere with internet access, without printing forms or visiting a post office.

• Easy access to filing records: Electronic filing platforms can provide access to submitted return details, filing status, and IRS acknowledgments for future reference.

Form 8868, Application for Extension of Time To File an Exempt Organization Return or Excise Taxes Related to Employee Benefit Plans, is used by eligible tax-exempt organizations and other qualifying filers to request additional time to file certain federal tax returns.

For eligible exempt organization returns, filing a properly completed Form 8868 by the original due date generally provides an automatic six-month extension. This helps to gain extra time to file forms, such as Forms 990, 990-EZ and 990-PF.

However, Form 8868 may be used to request the extension for other returns, including Forms 990-T and 4720; while the 5330 filers have their own procedures regarding extensions.

Important Notice: Form 8868 grants an extension of time to file a tax return, not the time to pay any taxes that are owed.

Read our blog on When you should file your Form 8868 and know the correct deadline.

Filing Form 8868 online with e-File990 is a simple process. The platform guides you through entering your organization's information, selecting the applicable return, reviewing the extension request, and submitting it electronically to the IRS.

Follow these seven steps to complete your Form 8868 extension filing.

Step 1: Register/Login

As a first-time user, you will be required to provide your personal information in order to register a new account. For those already registered users, login into your existing account.

Step 2 – Business Details
As a new user, you need to click on “Add Organization” and then fill in the business information, which should include EIN, Organization Name, Country, Phone Number, Your Name and Title.

In the field of Contact Information, you need to give the complete mailing address, including street address, city, state, country, and correct ZIP/Postal Code.

As an existing user, you can easily choose your organization name from the list.

Step 3 - Tax Year & Form Information

Click Start New Filing, then choose “8868 – For Extension of Filing” in the Form Type pull-down menu. Afterward, choose your Organization Name and appropriate Tax Year.

Step 4 – Return Code and Bookkeeper Information

Pick out the suitable Return Code from the list box to indicate the Form 990 series return on which you are seeking extension.

In the section of Bookkeeper Information, provide the correct information of Bookkeeper Name, Phone Number, and Mailing Address along with Zip Code.

Step 5 – Automatic Extension and Tax Year

Select from among the Automatic Extension selections and whether this is a Group Return.

Enter your organization's correct Calendar Year or Fiscal Year period. Based on the selected tax period, the portal will automatically populate the Original Filing Due Date and the Extended Due Date under Form 8868.

Step 6 - Review

Check the displayed Processing Fee and verify the filing information. After verifying the filing information, accept the Review Statement by ticking the required checkbox.

Step 7 - Payment

Payment of the Processing Fee should be completed using your Debit or Credit Card. Please provide the card details correctly and finalize the payment process.

Your Form 8868 Extension Request for Form 990 will be automatically filed to the IRS via eFile990 in minutes. Upon acceptance by the IRS, you will receive your IRS accepted confirmation.

Read our Form 8868 Online Filing Guide for a comprehensive understanding

No Software Download

File Form 8868 directly through an online platform without installing software. Access your account and complete your extension request using an internet-connected device.

IRS-Authorized E-Filing Provider

e-File990 provides an electronic filing option for eligible Form 8868 extension requests. The IRS lists Efile990.com among its approved Modernized e-File providers for Form 8868.

Quick IRS Acknowledgment

Electronic transmission eliminates mailing delays and allows you to receive an IRS filing acknowledgment once your request is processed. You can verify whether your extension was accepted or requires correction.

Simple and Quick Filing Process

Follow a guided step-by-step process to enter your organization details, select the tax year, review your information, and submit your extension request online.

Conclusion

Electronic submission of Form 8868 is one of the easiest methods of applying for additional time to file the yearly income tax return without creating more work or waiting times. Submission of a well-prepared application form allows qualifying organizations to get an automatic six-month extension to fill their returns correctly. Using e-File990, the IRS-Authorized 8868 electronic submission site by the IRS, to file your Form 8868 extension.

Start now with e-File990 and file your Form 8868 Online extension request online.