The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that taxpayers in parts of Maine and Rhode Island have been granted a three-month extension to file and pay their tax returns due to recent severe storms and flooding in both states. This extension allows individuals and businesses until July 15 to file their returns and pay their taxes instead of the original deadline of April 15. The tax relief postpones various tax filing and payment deadlines that occurred from January 9, 2024, through July 15, 2024, allowing affected individuals and businesses extra time to meet their tax obligations.
In Maine, the extension applies to individuals and households in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington, and York counties, while in Rhode Island, it applies to those in Kent, Providence, and Washington counties. These extensions are granted when an area is issued a disaster declaration by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Taxpayers who believe they will still require an extension beyond the July 2024 deadline can request it electronically by April 15. However, if a taxpayer files for an extension between April 15 and July 15, the request can only be submitted on paper, with the tax returns ultimately due on October 15.
Earlier this year, the IRS implemented similar measures for taxpayers in San Diego County, California, following severe storms and flash flooding in January. Taxpayers in disaster areas had their tax deadline extended to June 17, 2024, to provide additional time to file and pay their taxes. The IRS automatically identifies taxpayers located in covered disaster areas and applies filing and payment relief. If an affected taxpayer receives a penalty notice from the IRS, they should call the telephone number on the notice to have the penalty abated if the original deadline falls within the postponement period.
These extensions and relief measures are aimed at providing assistance to taxpayers affected by natural disasters and severe weather events, allowing them extra time to fulfill their tax obligations without facing penalties. By granting these extensions, the IRS aims to alleviate the financial burden on individuals and businesses in disaster areas, giving them the necessary time to navigate challenges caused by the adverse conditions. The IRS will continue to monitor situations where additional tax relief may be necessary in response to future disasters, ensuring that taxpayers receive the support they need during difficult times.
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