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Missed deadline explanation

A plain statement of why a return or payment was late, for use with a late return or a penalty relief request.

By Ben Reyes, Tax Writer
Last reviewed September 21, 2026

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Before you send it

Attach this to a late return or keep it for the penalty notice that follows. It is the timeline that a later abatement request will rely on, so make it accurate now.

Before you send anything

This is general information, not tax advice. Situations differ. Check with your tax advisor before you send anything. Nothing on this page creates a client relationship.

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