If the April tax deadline came and went—and you're just now getting back to your tax documents—take a deep breath. You're in good company.

At Trail CPA, we often recommend filing an extension when it means getting a more accurate return, taking advantage of strategic opportunities, or simply reducing stress. In fact, many of our clients file extensions every year—and for good reason.

It’s completely normal to file an extension—and in many cases, it’s the best decision you can make.

What Is a Tax Extension?

A tax extension gives you extra time—typically 6 additional months—to file your return with the IRS. Trail CPA can handle the extension for you, so there's no paperwork or stress on your end.

Important reminder: A tax extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay. If you owed taxes back in April and didn’t pay, penalties and interest may apply—but we can help you get caught up and minimize future penalties.

Why Filing in the Summer Is Totally Fine

It’s Common
Millions of people file extensions every year, including business owners, investors, and busy families. It’s a smart choice when you’re waiting on paperwork or need more time to plan.

We’re Not in the Rush Window Anymore
Summer offers a slower, calmer pace—on both sides. With fewer deadline pressures, our team has more time to focus on your return and any questions you might have.

It Helps Ensure Accuracy
Still waiting on K-1s or 1099s? Need time to pull together business receipts? Filing now allows you to avoid mistakes that could lead to IRS notices later.

Extra Time = Tax Strategy Time
Extensions buy time for proactive planning—whether it’s maximizing deductions, finalizing elections, or planning for a major life change like a move, sale, or new business venture.

You Can Still Max Out Certain Contributions
If you're self-employed, you may still be able to make 2024 contributions to a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k) up until your extended filing deadline.

Why We Recommend Extensions

At Trail CPA, we don’t just allow for extensions—we often recommend them.

Here’s why:

Accuracy over urgency: Getting it right matters more than filing it fast.
Less stress for you (and our team): Tax season doesn’t have to be chaotic.
Better outcomes: More time = better planning = smarter results.
Filing now is still “on time”: You’re not late—you’re just on the extension timeline.

Deadlines to Know

If you filed an extension, here are your final due dates:

Individual (1040): October 15
Partnerships (1065) & S Corps (1120S): September 15
C Corporations (1120): October 15
Nonprofits (990): November 15

What You Can’t Do With an Extension

Fund Traditional or Roth IRAs Late
Unfortunately, an extension doesn’t give you more time to contribute to traditional or Roth IRAs. Those contributions were still due by the original April deadline.

Ready to Wrap Up Your Return?

If you extended your return—or think you should—we’re here to help. Whether you’re behind on paperwork or just need a little extra support to finish strong, Trail CPA can guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.

Extensions aren’t the exception. They’re often the smart, strategic choice.

Let’s file when it makes the most sense—not just when the calendar says so.