Many taxpayers are misled with the belief that because the government has shutdown, the IRS has cease operating. This is absolutely wrong.
Yes, the Internal Revenue Service has been affected to a certain extent, but all underlying tax laws remain in effect. Taxpayers must continue to meet their tax obligations as normal.
Several functions of the IRS during the government shutdown will be automated.
Individuals and businesses must continue to file their tax returns and keep their tax obligations. Taxpayers who are planning to request for extensions on October 15 must file their returns on or before the date whether it be by electronic filing or by mail. The preferred filing currently for taxpayers will be electronically because the returns will be processed automatically. However, no refunds will be mailed to taxpayers during this period. Automated telephone assistance will also be available. Unfortunately all walk-in assistance will be closed. Resources like the IRS website and TheTaxAttorney.com will be fully functional. If you have IRS tax problems and need live assistance call our offices at 855.829.4771.
Audits, examinations and other personal appointments with IRS agents will be rescheduled once operation resumes. While the government remains closed, no IRS levies, garnishments and liens will be issued against any taxpayer. In general, there is not going to be any collection enforcement action except in limited circumstances or where a criminal investigation is concerned. Like any other law enforcement agency which are exempt from being closed, IRS criminal investigators are working albeit, the shutdown. We recommend you contact our offices if you have IRS and tax problems. We can begin the process and take advantage of the down time.
No one is sure when the government will reopen. Taxpayers, who have deadlines to file, must meet those deadlines. If deadlines are not met, the IRS will be ready to impose penalties and the fact that the government was closed would not be accepted as an excuse. Once the government reopens, the IRS will get you with a vengeance if you fail to meet your obligation as a taxpayer.
Our offices are open and it is business as usual at TheTaxAttorney.com. Several taxpayers who received letters from the IRS and are experiencing tax problems such as bank levies, financial hardship, high penalties, and so forth are asked to call our offices so that we may begin the process to relieve the stress and agony of high tax liabilities. Call 855.829.4771 or visit TheTaxAttorney.com