By Oleg Ikhelson, Managing Director, Head of Tax
In response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County, California, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the California Governor’s Office have announced disaster-related tax relief measures. These measures are designed to offer financial support and flexibility to individuals and businesses impacted by the wildfires.
Taxpayers in Los Angeles County have until October 15, 2025, to meet various tax filing and payment obligations that typically fall between January 7, 2025, and October 15, 2025. The deadline extensions apply to a broad range of tax filings and payments, allowing victims to focus on recovery without the added stress of looming tax obligations.
Deadlines Listed Below Have Been Extended to October 15, 2025
- Quarterly Estimated Income Tax Payments: Payments previously due on January 15, April 15, June 16, and September 15, 2025.
- Quarterly Payroll and Excise Tax Returns: Deadlines originally set for January 31, April 30, and July 31, 2025.
- Individual Income Tax Returns and Payments. The filing and payment deadlines typically due on April 15, 2025.
- 2024 Contributions to IRAs and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Eligible taxpayers have additional time to make 2024 contributions.
- Tax-Exempt Organization Returns. Returns normally due on May 15, 2025.
- Business Tax Returns
- Calendar-year partnership and S corporation returns normally due on March 17, 2025.
- Calendar-year corporation and fiduciary returns and payments normally due on April 15, 2025.
Relief for Additional Disaster Areas
The IRS has confirmed that similar relief measures will be extended to any other counties designated as disaster areas in connection with the wildfires. The California Governor’s Office has indicated that the state will likely conform to federal relief measures for additional counties as they are added.
How to Qualify for Relief
Taxpayers in Los Angeles County do not need to take any special action to qualify for this relief. The IRS will automatically identify affected taxpayers based on their address on file. Those who receive late-filing or late-payment penalty notices can contact the IRS to have these penalties abated.
Details and Further Guidance
For more information, refer to the official announcements:
- IRS Tax Relief Details: IRS Newsroom
- California Governor’s Office Statement: Governor’s Office
These extensions are a vital lifeline for wildfire victims, providing crucial time and flexibility to recover and rebuild while managing their tax obligations.
Contact Cresset to learn how these extended deadlines can help you navigate your recovery and manage your financial obligations.
