NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Farmers, rural business owners, and families who paid IRS late fees, estimated-tax penalties, or interest during the COVID years may have money waiting to be refunded. The catch is that they likely have to ask for it before the deadline passes.
AARP reports the issue involves penalties and interest charged during the federal COVID disaster period, which ran from Jan. 20, 2020, through July 10, 2023. The National Taxpayer Advocate says millions of taxpayers could be affected, but refunds are not expected to arrive automatically.
That means anyone who filed late, paid late, missed estimated tax payments, or was charged interest by the IRS during that period should review their old tax records. Farmers and self-employed rural taxpayers may want to pay close attention, as estimated tax rules often apply to their operations.
The first step is checking IRS account transcripts for 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. A tax preparer can help identify penalty and interest charges and determine whether Form 843 should be filed.
The IRS is still fighting the court ruling, but taxpayers may need to file a protective claim by July 10, 2026, to preserve refund rights.
Farm-Level Takeaway: If you paid IRS penalties or interest during the COVID years, review your records now, because a refund may not be issued unless you request it.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Event focuses on helping communities grow through local business
April 21, 2026 02:18 PM
·
Strong demand for U.S. beef in Mexico is boosting exports, with buyers seeking both variety meats and high-quality cuts like Prime and Choice ribeye.
April 21, 2026 12:49 PM
·
Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, proposed fertilizer legislation, and potential support for farmers navigating tight margins.
April 21, 2026 12:39 PM
·
As AI-driven data centers expand in rural South Texas, local officials and economists debate water use, farmland impacts, and the balance between technology growth and agriculture preservation.
April 21, 2026 10:10 AM
·
As federal policy shifts toward greater tribal sovereignty, farmers and ranchers (and their legal counsel) must prioritize clear, written contracts and stay engaged with state legislative developments and tribal council updates.
April 21, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Summer fuel rules cap ethanol demand and limit corn upside.
April 21, 2026 07:00 AM
·
