Discussion:Must fund SEP before filing extended tax returns?

Is this really necessary? If I extend my tax return, then file it the day after the April 15 due date, can I do this, get the refund, and use the refund to fund my SEP by October 15?

The question ultimately is, must I fund my SEP before I file my extended tax returns???

If you follow the first link Deb provided in that discussion, this is one of the Q&As:

"What is the timeframe for depositing contributions into SEP-IRAs?

The employer must deposit contributions for a year by the due date (including extensions) for filing its Federal income tax return for the year. Note: If the employer extends its tax return then it has until the end of that extension period to deposit the contribution, regardless of when it filed the tax return. However, if the employer did not deposit the contribution timely, it must amend the tax return and pay any tax, interest and penalties that may apply."

In addition to what has been posted above, you can also use Rev Ruling 66-144 (permitting this for accrual basis taxpayers) and Rev Ruling 84-18 (not Rev. Rul 84-81 as originally noted) which amplifies the previous ruling to allow cash basis taxpayers the same rights based on ERISA. Rev Ruling 84-81 was written to allow IRA contributions to be funded by April 15 even though the tax return was already filed but it does also contain a paragraph referencing your question.