The IRS is open and processing mail, tax returns, payments, refunds and correspondence. However, COVID-19 continues to cause delay in some services, such as:
- Live phone support
- Processing paper-filed tax returns
- Answering mail from taxpayers
- Reviewing tax returns, even for returns filed electronically
What to expect
Whether you’ve sent in a client’s individual or business tax return or are answering a letter, the IRS provides information on how long you may have to wait and what to do next based on the following actions taken:
- Filed an individual tax return, business tax return or amended return
- Received a bill or notice
- Answered a letter or notice
- Sent a missing form or document
- Sent a check to the IRS
- Requested paper tax forms
- Requested a tax-exempt sector determination, ruling or closing agreement
- Sent a third-party authorization or power of attorney form
- Need to file a form with a digital signature
- Received a failure to deposit penalty as an employer
Other services
COVID-19 operations and staffing limits have affected other IRS services. The IRS provides information on availability and processing times if you:
- Need help
- Need to release a lien due to COVID-19 hardship
- Have a case with the Independent Office of Appeals
- Have a case with the Office of Chief Counsel
IRS enforcement and compliance operations
These IRS offices have resumed services:
- U.S. residency certification
- Compliance
To view the status of your action, visit the IRS website to check on your individualized needs. It is also recommended to check the site for updates.
About National Association of Tax ProfessionalsThe National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is the largest association dedicated to equipping tax professionals with the resources, connections and education they need to provide the highest level of service to their clients. NATP is comprised of over 23,000 leading tax professionals who believe in a superior standard of ethics and exemplify professional excellence. Members rely on NATP to deliver professional connections, content expertise and advocacy that provides them with the support they need to best serve their clients. The organization welcomes all tax professionals in their quest to continually meet the needs of the public, no matter where they are in their careers.
The NATP headquarters is located in Appleton, WI. To learn more, visit www.natptax.com.
Information included in this article is accurate as of the publish date. This post is not reflective of tax law changes or IRS guidance that may have occurred after the date of publishing. All taxpayer circumstances are different, and NATP recommends contacting research services if you have specific questions about your clients’ tax situations.