Millions of Americans residing in disaster areas have received a reminder from the IRS regarding the approaching mid-June deadline to file their taxes. The tax deadlines for seven states, including California, Michigan, Maine, Washington state, Tennessee, and West Virginia, were extended to June 17 due to declarations of disasters by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Taxpayers in specific counties and tribal areas within these states are granted the extension.
The IRS clarified that the June 17 deadline applies to various counties and tribal nations such as San Diego County, California, New London County, Connecticut, and several counties in Michigan. Additionally, taxpayers in certain counties in Maine, Tennessee, and West Virginia are also eligible for the extension. These disaster declarations were made by FEMA in response to natural disasters and similar incidents that occurred during the past tax year.
For affected individuals who require additional time beyond the June 17 deadline to file their taxes, they must file their extension requests on paper using Form 4868. It’s important to note that e-file options for extension requests are not available after April 15. While the extension grants taxpayers more time to file their paperwork until October 15, they are still required to pay their taxes by June 17.
However, specific counties and tribal areas in Maine, Rhode Island, and Alaska have until July 15 to file their taxes. This includes various counties in Maine and Rhode Island, as well as the Wrangell Cooperative Association of Alaska Tribal Nation. Hawaii wildfire victims in Hawaii and Maui counties have until August 7 to pay their taxes, while tornado victims in Ohio have until September 3.
The IRS assured taxpayers that it automatically provides filing and penalty relief to those with an IRS address of record located in the disaster area. However, some taxpayers may still receive late filing or penalty notices. In such cases, the IRS advises affected taxpayers to call the number provided on the notice to have the penalty abated.
In addition to the tax deadline extensions, the IRS recently issued a warning about potential tax scams and false claims leading to inflated refunds. The agency emphasized that thousands of taxpayers could face jail time if they file false tax returns that include artificially high refunds. Taxpayers were specifically cautioned against falling for scams related to the Fuel Tax Credit, Sick and Family Leave Credit, and household employment taxes. The fuel credit is applicable to farming use and off-highway businesses, while the sick leave credit was only available to workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel highlighted the prevalence of false and misleading claims perpetuated by scam artists and social media posts. These claims have misled well-meaning taxpayers into believing they are entitled to significant tax refunds. The IRS has already identified numerous dubious claims and urges taxpayers who filed such claims to understand that they have been deceived. These individuals may face an extensive review process and a potentially long wait for refunds related to legitimate claims.
As the tax deadline approaches for individuals residing in disaster areas, it is crucial for taxpayers to be aware of the extended deadlines, file their taxes promptly, and remain vigilant against fraudulent activities. Seeking professional assistance or contacting the IRS directly can help address any concerns or questions taxpayers may have while ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
