Tax season begins January 28, with or without shutdown

The 2019 tax season is coming later this month rain or shine. And whether the federal government is fully operational.

The IRS said this week that the agency would start processing tax returns on Jan. 28 and would issue refunds to taxpayers “despite the government shutdown.”

A partial government shutdown is now in its third week as President Trump and other Republicans butt heads with Democrats over funding for a proposed wall at the U.S.-Mexico border.

“We are committed to ensuring that taxpayers receive their refunds notwithstanding the government shutdown,” IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said in a news release. “I appreciate the hard work of the employees and their commitment to the taxpayers during this period.”

The shutdown comes as the IRS and taxpayers grapple with the first tax season in which changes from Congress’ overhaul of the U.S. tax system have become effective.

The IRS said it would recall “a significant portion of its workforce, currently furloughed as part of the government shutdown, to work” during tax season.

The deadline to file tax returns is April 15 for most taxpayers.

The IRS encourages taxpayers to file as soon as possible to expedite processing and returns.

Existing and new clients can book their annual tax appointments with Peekz ConsultiN online. Here’s how to prepare for the appointment.
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Peekz ConsultiN LLC is a Pittsburgh-based accounting firm, located in the West Side, that caters to individuals, small businesses and nonprofit organizations. We aim to empower clients to help them take control of their finances and achieve their dreams.