BHT&D Certified Public Accountants Blog

10 Things to Know About the Government Shutdown and Taxes

Posted by Joe Turnes on Thu, Oct 03, 2013 @ 02:49 PM

government shutdown and taxesDue to the Federal Government Shutdown, an IRS-wide furlough began on October 1, 2013 for most IRS employees. Only 8,700 of the 95,000 IRS employees remain on the job at this time. At this time, you should know that:

  1. If you requested a six-month extension of your individual tax return until October 15, 2013, you should still file your tax return by that date.
  2. Tax refunds will not be issued until normal government operations resume.
  3. The IRS will accept and process all tax returns with payments.
  4. The underlying tax laws remain in effect, and all taxpayers should continue to meet their tax obligations as normal.
  5. Taxpayers are urged to file extended returns electronically, as most of these returns will be processed automatically.  Paper-filed returns can be filed but there will be a delay with its processing. 
  6. There is no live telephone customer service assistance available.  However, automated toll-free telephone numbers will continue.
  7. IRS Walk-In taxpayer assistance centers will be closed.
  8. All audits and scheduled appointments with the IRS are cancelled and will be rescheduled once the government shutdown ends.  Your case or situation will NOT be closed during this time period.
  9. Tax Court is closed and will suspend operations until further notice
  10. Interest on any unpaid obligation will continue to accrue.

If you have any additional questions regarding the government shut down or your tax return, please call us to discuss or request a complimentary consultation.

Tags: Government Shutdown and Taxes