Can I request an extension after the Form 990 deadline has passed?

No, you cannot file an extension once the deadline has passed. To receive a 6-month extension, Form 8868 must be filed on or before the original Form 990 due date—typically the 15th day of the 5th month after your tax year ends (e.g., May 15 for a December 31 year-end).

If the deadline is missed and no extension is filed, the IRS may impose penalties:

• For small organizations (with gross receipts of $1,208,500 or less), the IRS penalty is $20 per day, up to a maximum of $12,000 or 5% of gross receipts, whichever is less.
• For large organizations (with gross receipts over $1,208,500), the penalty increases to $120 per day, capped at $60,000 or 5% of gross receipts, whichever is less.

Note: Form 990-N has no late fee, but missing it for 3 consecutive years can trigger automatic revocation of tax-exempt status.
If you missed the deadline, file your return as soon as possible to minimize penalties and maintain compliance.

Missed the deadline? You can still file your 990 forms now with Tax990 and avoid further penalties.