IRS Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Attorney Remind Taxpayers of Upcoming Tax Filing Deadline

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California reminded taxpayers of the May 17 filing and payment deadline.

Due to COVID-19, the original filing deadline and tax payment due date for 2020 was postponed from April 15 to May 17. Taxpayers filing Form 1040 series returns must file Form 4868 by May 17 to obtain the automatic extension to Oct. 15.

“Every person in this country is obligated to abide by our tax laws,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert. “It hurts everyone who follows the rules when people submit fraudulent returns and claim taxpayer money to which they aren’t entitled. It is vital that everyone meets their responsibilities to pay taxes and that they have confidence in the government agencies that enforce those rules.”

“With the May 17 tax deadline fast approaching, it is important for people to have confidence that when they pay their taxes, their neighbors and co-workers are doing the same,” said Michael Daniels, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation in Northern California. “For people facing hardships who cannot pay in full, including those affected by COVID-19, the IRS has several options available to help. The IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov as soon as possible to explore these options and avoid accruing interest and penalties after the May 17 deadline.”

For the most up-to-date information about the tax filing deadline taxpayers can visit IRS.gov.