Internal Revenue Service Flood Help to Expire Soon
Release Date: April 3, 2000
Release Number: 1319-11
» More Information on West Virginia West Virginia Winter Storm
CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- Time is running short for West Virginia flood victims to file for federal tax relief. The relief is for victims living in the 25 counties, which were federally declared eligible for individual disaster assistance as a result of the February storms, landslides and flash flooding.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is granting some relief to those whose homes or property was damaged in storms and flooding in February. To receive an extension, however, flood victims must file Form 4868 no later than April 17. IRS officials caution that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay.
Taxpayers also are urged to put the words, "FEBRUARY FLOODS" or similar language at the top of any tax form regarding storm-related relief.
Disaster relief includes assistance by IRS employees in calculating losses and helping to complete tax returns. In addition, IRS will assist in applying for immediate refunds to help offset financial hardships. Other specialized relief is available and taxpayers victimized by flooding should contact or call the IRS, toll-free at 1-800-829-1040, to determine if some remedy is available to them.
The filing deadline for federal tax returns is Monday, April 17.
"If your property was lost or damaged in a declared county, you may be able to get some money back right now," said Roger K. Burgess, IRS Director for Virginia-West Virginia District. "The IRS allows certain casualty losses to be deducted on Federal income tax returns for the year of the loss, or through an immediate amendment to the previous year's return," he explained.
Taxpayers can also receive help in filing their federal tax return by visiting an IRS walk-in office. Walk-in sites can be located by dialing the IRS toll-free number at 1-800-829-1040.
Last Modified: Friday, 14-Nov-2003 10:24:56