Is there an extension of time available for private foundations to file Form 990-PF?

Yes, there is a 6-month extension of time available for private foundations to file Form 990-PF. The IRS does not require an explanation for the 6-month extension and it is automatically granted. The extension is requested on Form 8868 entitled Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File an Exempt Organization Return. The extension can be filed electronically or with a hard copy paper form via postal mail.

The standard due date for private foundations with a calendar year accounting period (almost all of them) is May 15. The 6-month extension of time to file pushes the due date to November 15.

For non-calendar year foundations, Form 990-PF must be filed by the 15th day of the 5th month following the close of the organization’s accounting period.  If a non-calendar year foundation files an extension the due date is pushed back by 6 months from the original due date. When the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the due date is pushed back to the next succeeding day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday.

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