The IRS has pushed back the deadline for Texans to file their taxes this year as a result of the winter weather this month. Individuals and businesses can now wait until June 15 to file their return instead of April 15.
The extension applies to those filing their 2020 returns, businesses filing returns due March 15 and those making quarterly estimated tax payments.
"The IRS very understanding," says David Coffin, the owner of a law firm in Southlake that works with clients who have issues with the IRS. "It wasn't a surprise they extended this upcoming filing deadline."
The extension is automatic; taxpayers do not need to contact the IRS. Coffin says the extension can help people and business owners locate all of their records.
"If you've got flood damage, like my office suffered, many of the documents you may have already, the hard copies, may have gotten damage from the flood," he says.
Coffin says people may also have problems pulling records and finding documents online because of power and internet outages.
"That might throw somebody off the tracks and not allow them to file on time or to file accurately," he says.
When people do file, Coffin says those worried they do not have complete documentation can include a statement when filing saying they expect to file an amended return later.
The IRS gives taxpayers the option of including unreimbursed losses in this year's return, for the tax year 2020, or waiting to claim them next year.
You can get more information on the IRS website.