Electronically Filing Federal Extensions for an Individual and/or Business Return:
For steps on generating and sending the extension see How do I file extensions in Lacerte?
Q1. What forms are sent with the e-file extension?
A1. No tax return forms are transmitted when filing an extension electronically; only the extension form is transmitted.
Q2. Which e-file option should be selected when transmitting an extension?
A2. When e-filing an extension, the option for Start e-file extension wizard... should be selected.
Q3. Can the Federal extension be sent without a payment?
A3. Yes, the Federal extension can be sent with our without a payment. The balance due can be paid by check, credit card (via irs website), or direct debit. See Form 4868 instructions for more details.
Q4. How do I set up payment for balance due via direct debit?
A4. To set up payment of balance due via direct debt, see Individual Extension Form 4868 Payments for more information.
Q5. Why am I generating Form 8878 (Individual) or Form 8878-A (Business) on some returns, but not all?
A5. Individual - Form 8878 - IRS e-file Signature Authorization for Application for Extension of time to file. Corporate, S-Corporate and Fiduciary - Form 8878-A - IRS Electronic Withdrawal Authorization for Form 7004. These forms are similar to Form 8879 and are required only when filing an electronic extension AND paying the balance due electronically. These forms are not mailed to the IRS and are kept by the ERO for a period of 3 years.
Q6. What forms should be mailed to the IRS when e-filing the extension?
A6. None, no forms should be mailed to the IRS when e-filing the extension.
Q7. Where is my confirmation number associated with the e-filed extension?
A7. There is no confirmation number associated with an e-filed extension. The Accepted acknowledgement from the IRS is confirmation of the extension of time to file.
Q8. Do I need to do anything special when pulling the acknowledgements for an e-filed extension, vs a tax return?
A8. No, the acknowledgements for extension are retrieved in the same manner as that of an e-filed tax return. Select Step 3: e-file Acknowledgement Statuses - Receive Acknowledgement Statuses... from within the E-File dropdown menu in Lacerte.
Q9. When filing the extension electronically, does that mean the return must be e-filed?
A9. No, the return can be filed on paper or electronically, after the e-file extension has been Accepted. To file a paper return after e-filing the extension, remove the checkbox(es) on Screen 1, Client Information, with in the Electronic Returns section. (If you are not mandated to e-file)
Q10. Can a tax payment be made electronically with an extension after the extension deadline has passed?
A10. No, after the extension deadline has passed, the Lacerte e-file center will not accept extension returns with our without payments. Any payments made outside of the return filing will need to be made using the method of payment options available on the IRS website.
Q11. Can I e-file a batch or group of extensions?
A11. For information on e-filing a batch or group of extensions, . For step by step instructions see E-filing Extensions in Batches.
Q12. Can I e-file a extension for Form 1120-H?
A12. Yes, the extension should be marked for Form 1120-H in Screen 12, Automatic Extension (7004).
Electronically Filing State Extensions for an Individual Return:
Q1. Can the State extension be sent with the Federal extension?
A1. Yes, state extensions can be sent along with the Federal extension if the state requires one.
Q2. Will state e-filed extension payments need to be mailed?
A2. Yes, payments will need to be mailed unless Lacerte supports electronic payment with the state extension. (See individual state instructions for more detail)
Q3. Where can I find more information on filing state extensions in Lacerte?
A3. For information on filing state extensions visit 1040 state extension frequently asked questions.