An extension of time to file the return may be requested. For the final SBT return only, if a properly prepared application along with appropriate estimated tax payments are received by April 30, 2008, the Department will adjust the deadline for filing the final return to the last day of the fourth month after the end of the fiscal year reported on the federal return (2007-08), and will grant an extension of 180 days from that date to file the tax return. If the taxpayer indicates they have been granted an extension to file their federal income tax return, the Department of Treasury will grant the same length of time as the federal extension plus an additional 60 days. MCL 208.73(4)

For example, a taxpayer reporting a fiscal year on their federal return beginning June 1, 2007 and ending May 31, 2008 must file a short period SBT return for the period beginning June 1, 2007 and ending December 31, 2007. This return will be due April 30, 2008. Upon request, an extension will be granted to March 31, 2009, which is 180 days after September 30, 2008, the date that the federal return ending May 31, 2008 would be due for SBT purposes. A taxpayer with a federal extension would be extended to May 31, 2009.

If the standard SBT extension period is not sufficient to allow a fiscal year taxpayer to gather necessary information for its final SBT return, the Department will, upon request, grant a special extension appropriate to the circumstances.