Fill Out Form 15397 Online in 2025

Get more time to provide important recipient statements
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What is Form 15397?

Form 15397, known as the Application for Extension of Time to Furnish Recipient Statements, is used to request a one-time 30-day extension for providing copies of information returns, such as 1099 and W-2 forms, to recipients. This form is crucial for businesses and organizations that require additional time to complete their filing without incurring penalties. To ensure timely processing, the form must be faxed to the IRS by the original deadline, helping avoid delays in distributing these important documents to recipients.

What is Form 15397 used for?

Form 15397 helps you when you need more time to send important tax documents. Here’s what it’s used for:

  • Requesting a 30-day extension to send Forms W-2 and 1099-NEC to recipients.
  • Providing an organized means to ask for this extension, making the process smoother.
  • Addressing unforeseen delays, like natural disasters or unexpected absences.
  • Enhancing compliance by formalizing the request and reducing errors in paperwork.

How to fill out Form 15397?

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  1. 1

    Gather necessary information and documents.

  2. 2

    Complete each section of the form accurately.

  3. 3

    Select one of the five predetermined reasons for requesting an extension.

  4. 4

    Fax the completed form to the IRS Technical Services Operation at 877-477-0572 (International Fax: 304-579-4105).

  5. 5

    Submit the request no later than the due date for furnishing recipient statements.

Who is required to fill out Form 15397?

Form 15397 is completed by employees, business owners, tax professionals, and organizations who are unable to meet IRS deadlines.

These groups use the form to request a one-time extension of up to 30 days for providing recipient copies of information returns, helping them stay compliant with IRS regulations.

When is Form 15397 not required?

You don’t need Form 15397 if you don’t require an extension to furnish recipient statements. Also, if you aren't responsible for distributing information returns like Forms 1099 and W-2, this form isn’t necessary. Additionally, if you've already filed Form 8809 to request an extension for filing, skip Form 15397.

When is Form 15397 due?

The deadline for Form 15397 is on or before the original recipient copy deadline of the information returns. It cannot be filed before January 1st. If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, you should file by the next business day.

How to get a blank Form 15397?

To get a blank Form 15397, simply visit our website. The form is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and is pre-loaded in our editor, ready for you to fill out. Remember, our platform helps with filling and downloading forms, but not filing them.

How to sign Form 15397?

To sign Form 15397, you can create a simple electronic signature using PDF Guru, as handwritten signatures are not required. Ensure your electronic signature meets IRS guidelines for acceptance. After filling out the form using our platform, download it for your records. Remember, PDF Guru does not support submission, so check the latest updates on the IRS guidelines to ensure compliance before proceeding.

Where to file Form 15397?

To submit Form 15397, fax it to the Internal Revenue Service Technical Services Operation. Address it to the Extension of Time Coordinator.

Remember, this form cannot be filed online. For help, contact the IRS toll-free or use TTY/TDD services for those with hearing or speech disabilities.

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Frequently asked questions

  • Why do I need to fill out Form 15397?

    You need to fill out Form 15397 if you require more time to furnish copies of information returns, such as Forms 1099 and W-2, to your recipients. This form helps you request a one-time extension of up to 30 days.

  • What are the reasons for requesting an extension?

    You must select one of five predetermined reasons for requesting an extension, which are similar in severity to the reasons for delay when requesting an extension using Form 8809.

  • How do I submit Form 15397?

    Form 15397 should be faxed directly to the IRS. You can also seek assistance from services that can help with sending the fax on your behalf.

  • Can I use Form 15397 for all types of information returns?

    No, Form 15397 is specifically used for requesting an extension to furnish Forms W-2 and 1099-NEC. For other information return types, such as Forms 1042-S, ACA forms, and the 5498 series, you do not need to complete Box 5.

  • Is there an updated version of Form 15397?

    Yes, there is an updated version of Form 15397 with a February 2024 revision date. The latest version includes changes to Box 5, which now applies only to Forms W-2 and 1099-NEC.

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