The IRS deadline for filing income taxes is still in effect, even if the federal budget brouhaha outcomes in a government shutdown. The date remains April 18, and a return still has to be filed If a shutdown occurs, refund checks can be delayed. Post resource - Government shutdown does not postpone IRS deadline by MoneyBlogNewz.
Shutdown impacts Internal Revenue Service employees
In the event of a government shutdown, there will be a few agencies that are unaffected in their operations. The Internal Revenue Service will not be among them, and all IRS agents and personnel could be told to stay home as long as the shutdown lasts. Unfortunately, according to Bloomberg, that doesn't mean the deadline to file an income tax return is postponed. It is possible that a deal could be made and the government shutdown won't take place. However, more than likely, April 8 will be when the shutdown occurs.
Best way to file is electronically
None of the paper returns can be received by the Internal Revenue Service if there is a shut down. That means paper returns will not be sent back either, so no refunds. The IRS is urging working class individuals to file electronically because any online tax return filings could be processed as normal.
How government workers will be affected
It is contended that the shutdown is going to occur because Congressional Republicans insist on defunding Planned Parenthood since the organization provides abortions. CNN states the members of congress and the president will nevertheless get paid. The individuals who will suffer are government employees. The work will stop for anybody who's considered "unnecessary personnel." This involves everyone not needed for the safety of the U.S. residents. Those who perform necessary services, like the FBI and the military, will nevertheless have to go to work. These employees are required to work for free during this time. There is no guarantee they'll get back pay.
Articles cited
Bloomberg
bloomberg.com/news/2011-04-07/shutdown-won-t-budge-april-18-tax-filing-deadline-irs-says.html
Times
curiouscapitalist.blogs.time.com/2011/04/08/tax-refund-fears-would-a-government-shutdown-hurt-spending/
CNN
money.cnn.com/2011/04/08/news/economy/shutdown_congress_pay/index.htm
