U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono and the Hawaii Congressional delegation have urged IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel to extend the 2023 federal tax filing and payment deadlines for individuals and businesses impacted by the Maui wildfires. In a letter signed by Senator Brian Schatz, Representative Jill Tokuda, and Representative Ed Case, the lawmakers emphasized the ongoing challenges faced by survivors of the wildfires.
The lawmakers expressed, "As these members of our community continue to process trauma, experience displacement, and assess the damage from the wildfires, we ask for your assistance in making sure individuals and businesses have enough time to file their taxes and make payments for the 2023 tax season." They also highlighted the support survivors received, stating, "In the wake of the wildfires, survivors received federal, state, county, and community disaster assistance to provide them with initial relief to meet their basic needs."
The letter addressed the impact of the devastating wildfires that struck Lahaina and Kula in August 2023, leading to loss of lives and significant destruction. The lawmakers emphasized the need for additional time for affected individuals to assess the tax implications of the disaster assistance they received and to cope with the emotional toll of the tragedy.
The lawmakers highlighted the authority of the Treasury Department and the IRS to extend deadlines for taxpayers affected by federally-declared disasters, urging Commissioner Werfel to consider extending the deadline for Maui wildfire survivors. They emphasized that an extension would not only aid in the recovery of the Maui community but also alleviate the burden on the IRS in processing potential tax return amendments.
The Hawaii delegation's letter concluded with a plea for Commissioner Werfel to use his authority to extend the filing and payment deadline for individuals and businesses affected by the wildfires, offering relief to those still grappling with the aftermath of the disaster.
The full text of the letter can be found here and below.