Tax filing deadline could reportedly be extended over the coronavirus

Internal Revenue Service building in Washington, DC
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Tax day might be coming a bit later than usual this year.

The Trump administration will likely extend this year's April 15 tax filing deadline because of the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, The Wall Street Journal reports.

The report specifies the decision to do hasn't been finalized, and "officials are still considering how far the filing deadline may be pushed back and who would be eligible for the extension." But the Journal writes that this "would effectively act as a bridge loan for individuals and businesses facing disruptions from the virus."

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The New York Times is reporting the same, saying the Internal Revenue Service could "extend the tax payment deadline or waive penalties and interest for late payments." House Ways and Means Committee Democrats had previously inquired with the IRS over whether such a move would be necessary, writing that they were "concerned" about "the ability of taxpayers, free tax preparation sites, and tax professionals to meet the filing deadline," the Times notes.

This report comes after President Trump reportedly pitched a 0 percent payroll tax rate for employees and employers through the end of the year.

Brendan Morrow

Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.