Urgent announcement from the IRS to thousands of worried Americans: You have until 2026

Thousands of families and businesses in the United States have received an urgent announcement from the IRS. Specifically, the federal agency is supporting victims of major events that have affected their lives.

We're talking about the severe storms in New Mexico. Social Security (SSA) and the IRS have provided a necessary and greatly desired measure for those who have suffered damages since June 23, 2025. This aid is already active and extends until February 2, 2026.

Ssa announces this about the IRS: thousands of Americans have until 2026

The story begins with devastating weather events that affected counties such as Chaves, Lincoln, Otero, and Valencia in New Mexico. Floods, intense storms, and landslides left many people and businesses in a very difficult financial situation.

After an official disaster declaration by FEMA, the IRS announced that they would grant relief, extending the deadline to file returns and certain payments until next year. Those with individual, business, quarterly estimated taxes, partnership or corporation returns, and other tax actions that were due soon can breathe easier. They have extra time to meet obligations without penalties.

Ssa knows the importance of this extension

The United States Social Security (SSA) has also coordinated to offer additional support to victims of severe storms. Although SSA doesn't extend the tax filing deadline, they apply special exclusions to aid and benefits such as temporary income exclusions, provisional housing, or disaster payments without impacting Social Security benefits.

This relief from the IRS is vital for many people and small businesses in New Mexico. In adverse situations, having until February next year to prepare returns and payments provides an opportunity to reorganize without pressure, avoiding fines and surcharges.

People and businesses can redirect their cash toward repairs

Additionally, it allows for a calmer use of available aid and to claim disaster losses, including personal or business losses, on the tax return. Economically, this measure implies a certain fiscal cost by delaying the receipt of federal taxes.

However, it is a necessary decision, as it provides additional liquidity to affected communities and allows resources to be directed toward immediate recovery. People and businesses can redirect their cash toward repairs, temporary housing, or replacement of goods, instead of anticipating tax payments this season.