The ongoing government shutdown has already begun to affect the level of service provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Just a few weeks ago, prior to the shutdown, the IRS reported a staff of approximately 78,000 employees. Two years earlier, that number exceeded 120,000, and even then, the agency was considered short by about 60,000 personnel. This past week, more than half of the remaining staff have been placed on furlough.

With the final individual filing deadline of October 15 approaching, these furloughs are expected to cause significant delays in tax return processing, including original, amended, and superseded filings. Responses to IRS notices, delivery of tax rulings, and progress on court cases are also likely to slow considerably.

Rosenfield & Company will continue to monitor developments closely and keep clients informed of any updates that may impact ongoing projects or filings. For questions or concerns, please contact Ken Rosenfield, CPA, or Susanne Herron, EA, Principal and Tax Team Leader.