From Yahoo Finance: 2025-04-14 06:21:00

If you’ve been affected by a disaster, the IRS grants an extension to file taxes beyond the deadline. Write off losses due to disaster to reduce tax burden. Be cautious of scams targeting disaster victims. IRS provides relief for affected areas, allowing extensions to file returns and make payments without accruing interest or fees.

IRS lists federally declared disaster areas eligible for extensions online. Taxpayers in specific states affected by disasters have until May 1 to file, with the option to request further extensions. Victims of wildfires in Southern California also qualify for automatic extensions. Interest and fees don’t accrue during disaster extensions.

Save media coverage to substantiate losses after a disaster. Take photos of damaged property, keep receipts for expenses, and file insurance claims promptly. Determine eligibility for tax deductions on casualty losses not covered by insurance. Watch out for scams promising big refunds or threatening demands.

Form 4684 guides taxpayers through calculating casualty write-offs. Deduct losses in the year they occurred or the previous year with an amended return. Verify correspondence with the IRS directly to avoid falling for scams. Be cautious of unsolicited messages or demands for immediate payment for tax help.

Read more: Have you experienced a disaster? You have more time to file your taxes