180-Day Rule: 1031 Exchange Series Part Four

So far in our seven-part series on 1031 exchange basics, we have discussed the six basic requirements, property being held for investment, and the 45-day identification rule. In the fourth part of our series, we are going to discuss more in depth the third requirement for a 1031 exchange which is the 180-day rule. If you’re curious about what this rule is and the timing requirements behind it, continue reading on to learn more.

The 180-Day Rule

As we have discussed in previous articles, there are two critical timing requirements when completing a 1031 exchange. This first is the 45-day identification rule which we discussed in part three of this series. The second is the topic we are discussing now, the 180-day rule. The 180-day exchange period runs concurrently with the 45-day identification rule. Therefore, if you haven’t read that part yet, we highly recommend it. However, here is a brief summary:

Day one of the 45-day identification period starts on the day of your closing. You have 45 calendar days from the day of your closing to identify the replacement properties and take title to it OR produce a written list of the replacement properties that you’re going to use.

Similarly, the 180-day rule also starts on the day that you close your property. As we also mentioned, it runs concurrently with the 45-day identification rule. What this means is you have a total of 180 days to complete the entire 1031 Exchange transaction. While you may have 45 days to identify properties, you have a total of 180 days to close on the new property and accept the title to it. It’s important to note that the property you choose must be one of the properties from your 45-day list.

You Must Choose a Property from Your 45-Day List

One of the requirements of the 180-day rule is that you must choose a property from the45-day list you have turned in. This is a Federal IRS rule and there are no exceptions and no extensions. 180 days to complete an exchange sounds like a long time. It is the 45-day period is where most people get lost or fall behind. It is imperative you start looking for replacement properties as soon as possible and make a list of potential properties. In the end, when the 45 days are up, you are left to choose from that list and that list only. You will then have to close on one of those properties within the 180-day window.

You May Have Less than 180 Days

If you’ve ever read over any federal laws, you know that they are very complicated and nuanced. Unfortunately, there is no exception here. With the 180-day rule, you actually have the lesser of 180-days or to the date of your next tax filing. The reason for this is the IRS wants your 1031 Exchange wrapped up and completed before you file your taxes. Therefore, it has to be reported on your next tax return.

For example, as everyone knows Tax Day is April 15th. If you sold your relinquished property on December 15th, you would have until April 15th to completely wrap and finish your 1031 Exchange by purchasing your replacement property or properties. This could be significantly less time than the allowable 180 days. You can easily avoid this by filing for an extension on your taxes. But, it’s a very important aspect to keep in mind. If you know you aren’t going to be able to complete your 1031 Exchange before taxes are due, go ahead and file for an extension.

Timing is Everything with the 180-Day Rule

In the last two articles, we’ve discussed a lot about timing. The reason for this is because timing is everything in a 1031 Exchange. Properties must be identified within 45 days and you then have 180 days to close on one or more of those properties, and only those properties. However, keep in mind that you may actually have less than 180 days if you are due to file your taxes before then. If that is the case, you may want to request an extension on your taxes so you have time to finish your 1031 Exchange.