IRS Provides Disaster Relief for Victims of Hurricanes Helene, Milton

Taxpayers affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which devastated much of the Southeast, are eligible for federal relief in the form of extended tax filing and payment deadlines. 

Extended Tax Deadlines 

Due to disruptions caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the IRS has extended relief to those who live in or have a business in the following states: 

• Alabama 

• Florida 

• Georgia 

• North Carolina 

• South Carolina 

• Tennessee (only certain parts) 

• Virginia (only certain parts) 

Federal taxpayer relief isn’t exactly the same in every state and sometimes differs by county. The IRS website provides a breakdown of relief by state and locality. 

Federal Income Tax Due Dates Moved to May 1, 2025 

For example, this relief may apply to: 

• 2023 federal income tax returns and income taxes due for fiscal-year businesses with year-ends in the middle to late part of the calendar year 

• 2023 personal federal income tax returns for calendar-year business that filed an extension 

•  2024 federal income tax returns and income tax payments that would’ve been due in March and April for individuals and calendar-year businesses 

Note that no relief has been provided for calendar-year businesses’ and individuals’ 2023 income tax payments, which were due in March or April 2024, even if they filed extensions. Taxpayers with an outstanding balance due for 2023 before this notice will still incur potential late payment interest and penalties. 

Certain Other Tax Returns and Payments: Now Due May 1, 2025 

Affected taxpayers have until May 1, 2025, to make the following tax payments: 

• Quarterly estimated income tax payments typically due on Sept. 16, 2024 (Georgia only), Jan. 15, 2025, and April 15, 2025 

• Quarterly payroll and excise tax returns typically due on Oct. 31, 2024, Jan. 31, 2025, and April 30, 2025. (this is for returns – not payroll tax payments) 

For some affected taxpayers, penalties on payroll and excise tax deposits may be waived when received by a specified date. 

Casualty Loss Deductions 

Hurricanes Helene and Milton wreaked havoc on many areas of the Southeast, prompting the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to declare disaster areas in many parts of the region. Taxpayers living in or with businesses in federally declared disaster areas may be able to claim a deduction for the unreimbursed cost of damage to their home, vehicle, or business. 

Check out our guide on casualty loss deductions to learn more. 

Smith + Howard is dedicated to helping its clients navigate difficult situations. Contact an advisor to discuss the availability of disaster relief.