Governor Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Revenue announced Monday that they would be joining the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in moving the due date for tax returns from April 15 to July 15.
The moves come amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and a recent order by Ivey that there should be no groups of more than 25 people gathered in any one place around the state.
Ivey said in a release, “It is imperative we reduce the burden upon Alabamians and get folks back on their feet financially. The safety and wellbeing of Alabamians is the paramount priority as we do everything within our power to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus.”
Information from the governor’s office says that corporate income tax, the Financial Institution Excise Tax (FIET) and the Business Privilege Tax (BPT) are also included in the extension.
The federal government is urging anyone who has their return ready to go ahead and file so they can receive their tax refund during the ongoing economic distress caused by measures taken to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
United States Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who oversees the IRS, announced the moving of the federal filing deadline via tweet last week.
At @realDonaldTrump’s direction, we are moving Tax Day from April 15 to July 15. All taxpayers and businesses will have this additional time to file and make payments without interest or penalties.
— Steven Mnuchin (@stevenmnuchin1) March 20, 2020
“Even considering the extended filing deadline, we urge taxpayers who are owed refunds to file as soon as possible and file electronically,” said Alabama Revenue Commissioner Vernon Barnett in a release, echoing the federal recommendation.
“Filing electronically with direct deposit is the quickest way to get refunds. Although the Department is practicing prudent working conditions with our staff during this period, we will continue with mission-critical operations to support Alabama’s citizens. We ask for your support, understanding and patience,” added Barnett.
Alabam residents can file their taxes online at myalabamataxes.alabama.gov.
Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: [email protected] or on Twitter @HenryThornton95.
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