Arkansas has announced that the tax filing deadline for individual returns is May 17th.

Arkansas individual income tax returns are due by April 15 (for calendar year taxpayers). If you need more time to file, you can request a state tax extension using Form AR1055 (Arkansas Individual Income Tax, Request for Extension of Time for Filing Income Tax Returns). The State of Arkansas grants 180-day extensions to taxpayers who apply properly, which moves the filing deadline to October 15.

You do not need to file a separate Arkansas tax extension if you have a valid Federal extension (IRS Form 4868). In this case, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration will automatically grant you a state extension. The deadline for your state tax return will then be the same as the extended deadline for your Federal return.

If you won’t be able to file your Arkansas return on time, getting a state tax extension will help you avoid Arkansas’ late filing fee. But note that this is an extension of time to file, not an extension of time to pay your Arkansas taxes. You are still expected to pay your tax balance by the original due date (April 15), or interest and penalties will be assessed. Make a tax payment with your extension using Form AR1000ES, Voucher 5 (Estimated Tax Declaration Voucher) and attach it to Form AR1055 or IRS Form 4868.

If you don’t have a valid Federal tax extension, you must specifically apply for an Arkansas extension with Form AR 1055. This form is due by the original deadline of your return (April 15).

For more information, visit the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website: www.dfa.arkansas.gov