The COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every part of our lives, and taxes are no exception. While yes, you still do have to pay taxes this year, there are some changes at both the national and state levels that Floridans need to be aware of. Here’s what to expect during this tax season!
Tax Day Extension
Tax Day this year would have fallen on April 15th. However, due to the unprecedented circumstances of the ongoing global pandemic, last week the IRS announced that the income tax filing deadline would be extended all the way to July 15th. This is an automatic extension, so you don’t need to fill out any extra forms, contact the IRS, or do anything else than file your taxes as you normal would—all that’s changed is the deadline date.
The IRS still urges those who are expecting refunds to file as quickly as possible, and to file electronically. IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig released a statement, saying, “Filing electronically with direct deposit is the quickest way to get refunds. Although we are curtailing some operations during this period, the IRS is continuing with mission-critical operations to support the nation, and that includes accepting tax returns and sending refunds.” Refunds are still expected to be issued within the normal range of 21 days from filing.
Florida Property Tax Extension
Floridians will also get a little extra time to file their property taxes. Last week the state government authorized an extension of the property tax filing date from March 31st to April 15th. This will give all of us, especially those of us who have been most affected by the pandemic either through illness or furlough from work, the ability to file on time with no penalties. The order applies to all counties in the state, and under the order all payments remitted on or postmarked April 15th will be considered timely.
In Marion County, all tax collector’s offices are currently closed to the public. You can reach them by phone at (352) 368-8200, or conduct your tax business online at www.MarionTax.com
Showcase is Here For You!
Even though we can’t shake hands, we’re still here to lend a helping hand. Our team is still available by phone or email, and you can find all of our contact information here. During this tax season we are standing by to answer your real estate tax questions, help you file on time, and take the stress out of the tax filing process. Let us know how we can continue to help you love where you live!