When should Form 15397 be filed?

 Form 15397 must be filed on or before the original due date for furnishing recipient statements. You should submit the form as soon as you know you need additional time, but keep these timing rules in mind:

• It cannot be filed before January 1 of the filing year

• The IRS must receive the form no later than the recipient copy deadline (for example, January 31 for many W-2 and 1099 forms)

Filing after the due date may result in the extension being denied and could lead to penalties for late furnishing.