When Is Form 5500 Due? Deadlines & Extensions
Form 5500 is generally due by the last day of the seventh month after the plan year ends. For the most common calendar-year plans, that means July 31 of the following year — with an extension available to October 15.
Last updated June 2, 2026
The standard deadline
The filing deadline is the last day of the 7th month following the end of the plan year. A calendar-year plan (ending December 31) is therefore due July 31. A plan year ending June 30 would be due January 31 of the next year.
Requesting an extension (Form 5558)
A plan can request a one-time extension of up to 2½ months by filing IRS Form 5558 on or before the normal due date. For calendar-year plans this moves the deadline to October 15. An automatic extension may also apply when the plan sponsor's corporate tax-return extension period is in effect and certain conditions are met.
What happens if you file late
Late or missed filings can trigger significant DOL and IRS penalties that accrue per day. The DOL's Delinquent Filer Voluntary Compliance Program (DFVCP) lets plans correct late filings at reduced penalty amounts. Late or amended filings show up in the public record, which is why you'll sometimes see multiple filings for the same plan year.
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Search filingsFrequently asked questions
July 31 of the year following the plan year. With a Form 5558 extension, the deadline moves to October 15.
Up to 2½ months beyond the original due date.