If you’ve heard the news about a temporary government funding lapse, you might be wondering how it affects your taxes. The IRS has indeed entered a period of limited operations, but it’s crucial to understand one thing above all else: your tax responsibilities have not paused.
The underlying tax laws remain fully in effect, and all filing and payment deadlines are still in place. As your trusted tax preparer in Harrisburg PA, Royalty Tax Services is here to cut through the confusion and guide you on what to do during the IRS shutdown 2025 period.
What’s Still Working: Your Digital Lifeline
While many in-person services are suspended, the digital backbone of the IRS is still operational. This is great news for taxpayers who use electronic services.
- IRS.gov is LIVE: The website remains your best resource for free filing information, tax forms, and key tools like “Where’s My Refund?” and the IRS2Go mobile app.
- Electronic Filing is Fully Operational: This is the most important takeaway. The IRS is still processing e-filed returns.
- Refunds are Being Paid: If you are due a refund, the fastest way to get it is unchanged. The IRS has confirmed that refunds for electronically filed, error-free Form 1040 returns with direct deposit will continue to be paid.
- Payments are Being Accepted: You can still make electronic payments and set up online payment agreements without interruption.
What’s Currently Unavailable
The limited IRS operations primarily affect in-person and paper-based services. Be aware of the following closures and delays:
- Closed Assistance Centers: All walk-in Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) are closed, and appointments are canceled until full operations resume.
- Postponed Meetings: Appointments with the Independent Office of Appeals and the Taxpayer Advocate Service are on hold.
- Paper Processing Delays: If you mail a paper tax return or correspondence, expect significant delays in processing and response times.
- Held Applications: Applications for tax-exempt status and certain pension plans are temporarily paused.
What You Should Do Now: A 3-Step Action Plan
Don’t let the shutdown disrupt your financial plans. Here’s how to stay on track:
- File and Pay on Time: All tax deadlines remain in effect. Do not use the shutdown as a reason to delay filing or paying, as penalties and interest may still apply.
- Go Digital, Get Your Refund: The single best thing you can do is to file electronically with direct deposit. This ensures your return is processed and your refund is issued without unnecessary delays.
- Use Online Tools: Rely on IRS.gov for the latest updates and to handle your tax tasks. Avoid mailing anything unless absolutely necessary.
We’re Here to Keep Your Tax Season on Track
At Royalty Tax Services, we are monitoring this situation daily. As your local tax expert in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, we are fully equipped to help you navigate this period smoothly. We can electronically file your return, answer your questions, and ensure you remain compliant while avoiding common pitfalls.
Our professional income tax filing service is the perfect solution to get your return submitted accurately and efficiently, securing your refund without delay.
Don’t let IRS operational changes cause you stress or financial setbacks.
