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We’ve got great news! Busy filing seasons just got a little easier. ExpressExtension now supports Form 15397, giving you a simple, streamlined way to request that 30-day extension for furnishing recipient copies of 1099, W-2, ACA, and certain other information returns. Instead of navigating paperwork on your own, you can submit your request through ExpressExtension, quickly, clearly, and all in one place.
Let’s walk through what Form 15397 is, who needs it, and how ExpressExtension makes the process easier.
What is Form 15397?
Form 15397 is an IRS form used to request a 30-day extension of time to furnish recipient copies of specific information returns. “Furnishing” simply means providing tax form copies to employees, contractors, or other recipients.
This extension is intended for situations where you can’t meet the original deadline due to valid delays. The IRS requires a reason for the request, and extensions are not automatically granted.
How to file 15397?
It’s important to note that while the IRS requires that 15397 form be faxed.
This is a step that many filers overlook, but don’t worry! ExpressExtension can handle the faxing on your behalf. After you submit your request through our platform, we will ensure that the form is faxed directly to the IRS for you, saving you time and avoiding additional hassles.
What information is required to file Form 15397?
To fill out Form 15397 and request an extension to furnish a recipient copy, you’ll need the following information.
- Business Details – Provide the legal business name, mailing address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Contact Information – Include the full name, phone number, and email address of the person responsible for the request.
- Type of Return – Specify which form the extension applies to (for example, Form W-2, 1099 series, 1095, 5498, etc.).
- Number of Statements Impacted – Enter an estimate of how many recipient copies will be furnished late.
- Reason for the Extension – Give a clear, valid reason such as a system issue, natural disaster, or other unavoidable delay.
- Authorized Signature – The request must be signed by the business owner, company officer, or an authorized representative.
What are the forms that can be extended using Form 15397?
Form 15397 can be used to request more time to furnish recipient copies for several types of forms, including:
- Form W-2 – Wage and Tax Statement
- Form 1099 series – Such as 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, and others
- Forms 1095-B and 1095-C – Health coverage forms
- Form 1042-S – Foreign income reporting
- Forms 1097, 1098, 3921, 3922, W-2G, and certain 5498 series forms
Each of these forms has its own recipient copy deadline. To receive an extension, Form 15397 must be submitted before the original due date.
When is Form 15397 due?
Your extension request must be filed on or before the original furnishing deadline for the forms you’re issuing.
For many businesses, important deadlines include:
- January 31 for Forms W-2 and 1099
- Later deadlines (March through May) for other information returns
Note: If Form 15397 is submitted after the due date, the IRS generally will not grant the extension.
| Form Type | Actual Deadline | Extended Deadline (30 Days) |
| 1099-NEC, W-2, 1097, 1098, 1099, 3921, 3922, or W-2G | January 31 | March 2 |
| 1099-QA | January 31 | March 2 |
| 1095-B, 1095-C | March 2 | April 1 |
| 1042-S, 5498-QA | March 15 | April 14 |
| 5498-ESA | April 30 | May 30 |
Get extra time: File Form 15397 online today!
Running short on time to furnish your tax forms? Don’t stress! With ExpressExtension, you can now file Form 15397 online in just a few clicks and secure a 30-day extension for furnishing recipient copies.
And if you’re looking for extra time specifically for filing Form 1099 or W-2, you can also file Form 8809 through ExpressExtension.
Get started today and simplify your tax season with ExpressExtension!
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