Why am I getting an error when filing an extension request for a Colorado individual return?

[davetodd11]

When e-filing a Colorado individual return extension request, I receive an error indicating that "The extension does not meet the conditions for electronic filing.  Form DR 0158-I is not active.  Check the freeze box to activate."

On the Form DR158-I worksheet, I DO have the freeze box checked, and the return passes the error validation.  Anyone have an idea as to why I would still be receiving this error?

Also, income tax expected to be owed is $0.00 because of a 2020 over-payment carryover.

[dkh]

I'm going to start by asking if Colorado state returns are what you normally prepare or is this a one and only for a client ?      If it's your normal then I'd guess you know all the steps required to send an extension.  If it's a one time deal - I'd start with the Information Worksheet within Colorado to be sure all check boxes have been activated.   Did you run Check Errors to see what message(s) come up?

[Just-Lisa-Now-]

I know CA wont let me send an extension unless a payment is included, maybe CO is the same. 

If you dont owe them any money, they dont want an extension.

[davetodd11 · Accepted solution]

This is the first year I've done Colorado returns, and I did run the error validation.  One note I didn't catch on the DR158-I worksheet was that you are only supposed to submit that form if a payment is due.  In my case, it wasn't, so the system won't even let me submit one.

[davetodd11]

Turns out CO is similar.  The issue was that the DR158-I form was only supposed to be submitted if a payment was due/being made.  I missed the note that specifically said NOT to submit the form if no payment was due.