How to File an Extension for Form 5472: A Complete Guide for US Disregarded Entities

How to File an Extension for Form 5472: A Complete Guide for US Disregarded Entities

Filing Form 5472 can be complex for foreign-owned US disregarded entities. If you're approaching the deadline and need more time, filing an extension is straightforward and helps you avoid costly penalties.

What is Form 5472?

Form 5472 is an information return that reports transactions between a foreign-owned US corporation (or disregarded entity) and related parties. For single-member LLCs owned by foreign persons, Form 5472 must be filed annually even with no reportable transactions.

Filing Deadlines

Form 5472 is due with the entity's tax return:

• Calendar-year entities: April 15th
• Fiscal-year entities: 15th day of the 4th month after year-end
• The form attaches to a pro forma Form 1120

How to File an Extension

File Form 7004

Form 7004 provides an automatic 6-month extension, moving the deadline from April 15th to October 15th for calendar-year entities.

Complete Form 7004 Correctly

Required notation: Write "Foreign-owned U.S. DE" across the top of Form 7004

Part I:

• Enter entity name and EIN
• Line 1: Enter the code for Form 1120

Part II: Complete entity information (no payment required)

Use the Correct Filing Address

CRITICAL: Do not use the standard Form 7004 address.

Fax (recommended):

• 855-887-7737 (300 DPI or higher)

Mail:

Internal Revenue Service

1973 Rulon White Blvd

M/S 6112

Attn: PIN Unit

Ogden, UT 84201

File by the Original Deadline

Submit Form 7004 by April 15th (or your original due date). Filing after this date provides no penalty protection.

Key Points to Remember

Documentation: Keep your fax confirmation or mailing receipt as proof of timely filing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong filing address (use the Form 5472 address, not the Form 7004 address)
• Missing the "Foreign-owned U.S. DE" notation
• Using the wrong form code (must use Form 1120 code)
• Poor fax quality (must be 300 DPI or higher)
• Forgetting the pro forma Form 1120 (also write "Foreign-owned U.S. DE" across its top)

Quick Filing Checklist

1. Write "Foreign-owned U.S. DE" on Form 7004
2. Enter Form 1120 code on Line 1
3. Complete all required information
4. Fax to 855-887-7737 or mail to Ogden PIN Unit
5. File by April 15th (original due date)
6. Save fax confirmation or mailing receipt
7. Mark October 15th as your extended deadline

Resources

• IRS Form 5472 and Instructions
• IRS Form 7004 and Instructions
• Foreign-Owned Disregarded Entities

Need Professional Help?

Filing Form 5472 requires understanding complex international tax rules. If you need assistance with Form 5472 compliance or filing an extension, MyFreeTaxAmerica.com specializes in helping foreign-owned US entities navigate these requirements.

Conclusion

Filing an extension for Form 5472 is simple when you follow the correct procedures. Remember the three critical requirements: write "Foreign-owned U.S. DE" on the form, use the Form 1120 code, and file to the correct address (fax 855-887-7737 or the Ogden PIN Unit).

File Form 7004 by your original deadline, then use the extension period to prepare a complete and accurate Form 5472. Start gathering documentation early, and consult a tax professional if you need assistance.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Consult with a qualified tax professional regarding your specific situation.