Schneider Requests IRS Delay April 15 Tax Filing Deadline Due to Coronavirus Outbreak
Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, requested the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) delay the April 15 tax filing deadline due to disruptions caused by the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19).
In a letter to IRS Commissioner Charles P. Rettig, Schneider related that many constituents will have difficulties meeting the April 15 deadline, pointing to the closure of libraries and community centers used as free taxpayer preparation sites and as access points for the online Free File service. Similarly, many IRS field offices and tax counseling sites relied on by Americans who may not have internet access, such as the elderly, have closed. Schneider acknowledges the IRS's recent decision to delay the payment deadline for taxes by 90 days, but writes a similar extension for the filing deadline is needed.
Schneider also called on the IRS to expedite refunds to taxpayers who have filed as these funds could help families overcome economic difficulties posed by the virus.
Full letter text:
Dear Commissioner Rettig,
In light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and impact on our nation and my constituents, I am writing to urge the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to extend the tax filing deadline beyond the current April 15 date.
It is difficult to find someone who has not yet been impacted by COVID-19, whether they have lost their job, been furloughed, are caring for a loved one, or are working on the front lines to combat the spread of this virus. As a result of this, many of my constituents are concerned about how they will file their taxes on time.
In particular, I would like to draw your attention to the critical role of free taxpayer preparation sites and the Free File service. Many taxpayers use computers at their public libraries to file their taxes via online portals like the Free File service, but many public libraries are now closed to stop the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, the IRS has closed field offices and tax counseling sites that people, especially the elderly, rely on. Seniors and others who do not have access to a computer or may need assistance are, therefore, unable to file their taxes on time. That is why it is so critical to extend the filing deadline for this tax season.
Furthermore, many Americans have already filed their taxes and are owed refunds. These refunds will help Americans feel more secure during this tumultuous and uncertain time and will help people stay in their homes and put food on the table. Therefore, I urge the IRS to expedite the processing of these refunds, so my constituents and everyone across the country can use these funds to make it through this difficult time. I appreciate your decision to delay the payment of taxes owed by 90 days in light of this crisis, however the April 15 filing deadline remains a burden for many families.
I urge you to immediately extend the tax filing deadline beyond April 15 so that Americans have one less thing to worry about amidst the current stress and worry surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The IRS has the authority to do this under the Internal Revenue Code. I appreciate your prompt consideration of my request and look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
BRADLEY S. SCHNEIDER
Member of Congress