How electronic postmarks determine filing time
Learn how Thomson Reuters creates electronic postmarks and how the IRS adjusts them to the taxpayer's time zone to determine timely filing.
Electronic postmark creation
Thomson Reuters creates an electronic postmark bearing the date and time (CT) that the e-file is received at our host computers. If a question arises about timeliness of filing, the IRS uses the electronic postmark adjusted to the taxpayer's time zone.
Time zone adjustments
The IRS adjusts the electronic postmark based on the taxpayer's location:
- Eastern Time(ET): The IRS adds 1 hour to the electronic postmark to determine the filing time.
- Pacific Time(PT): The IRS subtracts 2 hours from the electronic postmark to determine the filing time.
Plan for timely filing
To ensure you receive a timely electronic postmark, plan for possible transmission issues when you submit returns and extensions.
