What is an extension for the tax return?
An extension means you officially get more time to file your tax return. Normally the 2025 tax return must be filed before 1 May 2026. With an extension you get extra time – without a fine and without annoying reminders from the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority).
Important: An extension is not the same as paying later. If you have to pay tax, the tax interest (6.5% in 2026) simply continues to accrue from 1 July 2026, even if you have an extension. Getting a refund? Then you receive this money only after your tax return has been processed.
How long do I get an extension?
There are different types of extension – how long you get depends on who makes the request.
| Type of extension | Applicant | End date |
|---|---|---|
| Standard extension | Yourself (via DigiD) | 1 September 2026 |
| Extension via tax adviser | Adviser (beconregeling) | 1 May 2027 |
| Special extension | In writing, with reason | By agreement with Belastingdienst |
How do I request an extension?
You can request an extension in three ways:
Option 1: Online via My Belastingdienst (free, 5 minutes)
- Go to mijn.belastingdienst.nl and log in with your DigiD
- Click on "Income tax"
- Choose "Request extension"
- Follow the steps – you receive immediate confirmation
You must do this before 1 May 2026. After this date, online extension is no longer possible.
Option 2: Via the Tax Phone
Call the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority) on 0800-0543 (free) and request an extension by phone. This is also possible without DigiD. Note the waiting time – just before the deadline this can rise to 30+ minutes.
Option 3: Via us (at home, including tax return)
Don't have DigiD, no time or don't feel like doing it yourself? We arrange the extension and the tax return for you. Via the beconregeling we automatically get as a tax adviser an extension until 1 May 2027 – almost a year extra.
Benefit of the beconregeling: You get almost a year extra time without having to do anything yourself. We file tax returns in batches so that waiting times and stress for you are kept to a minimum.
When is an extension wise?
An extension is smart in the following situations:
- You are still missing documents – for example, annual statement from employer or pension fund
- You have recently bought a home – mortgage details are sometimes only complete later
- You are a self-employed person or entrepreneur – accounting is not yet finished
- You have box 3 wealth – definitive figures are sometimes available later
- You have been abroad – foreign income must be included
- You are simply busy – that can also simply be a reason
What you should know about extensions
- An extension is free if you request it yourself
- You don't get a fine if you file within the extension period
- Tax interest continues from 1 July 2026 (6.5% per year)
- Refunds are paid later – you wait longer for your money
- Benefits have their own deadlines – these can be missed
- You can only get an extension once – renewal must be in writing with reason
Extension and tax return by Belastinghulp Zaanstad
Our clients choose us because we take over the complete process: requesting an extension via the beconregeling, gathering all documents, checking deductions, and submitting the tax return correctly. You don't have to do anything yourself.
What you get:
- Automatic extension until 1 May 2027 via the beconregeling
- Home visit in Zaanstad (or digital)
- Fixed price €59 all-in
- Check on all benefits and tax credits
- Copy of tax return plus clear overview
Know someone who needs an extension? Forward this article.
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