Government shutdown wont affect your 2026 tax return
Mashable
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The U.S. government shutdown will not impact your ability to file your 2026 tax return, according to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Despite the partial shutdown, which began on February 14, 2024, the IRS has confirmed that its operations will remain unaffected. This is because the funding lapse primarily affects the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its sub-agencies, not the IRS. Taxpayers can expect normal filing deadlines, payment obligations, and access to online tools like Free File and electronic refunds to stay on track.
The shutdown stems from ongoing negotiations between congressional Democrats and the White House over DHS funding. Democrats are pushing for immigration enforcement reforms following tragic incidents involving U.S. citizens killed by federal immigration authorities. Their demands include measures such as mask prohibitions for enforcement officers, verification protocols for detentions, and protections for sensitive locations like schools and medical facilities. While the IRS remains operational, other federal agencies may face disruptions.
For tax filers, the IRS encourages using its online resources to file returns and access refunds efficiently. The Free File program, which provides free tax preparation software, is still available to eligible taxpayers. Additionally, electronic deposits for refunds are strongly recommended, as they typically arrive within 21 days of filing electronically. Paper checks, while still an option, may result in longer wait times.
The IRS has also emphasized the importance of providing banking information when submitting returns to ensure timely refunds. An executive order signed by President Trump in 2025 mandates electronic payments for federal agencies, including the IRS. Taxpayers who do not provide banking details will receive checks after responding to an initial request from the IRS or if their return has no issues, but this process may take up to six weeks.
This situation highlights the importance of staying informed about IRS updates and utilizing digital tools during tax season. For tech-savvy readers, the emphasis on online resources and electronic payments underscores the growing shift toward digital services in government operations, even amid political gridlock. Taxpayers can rest
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Originally published on Mashable on 2/19/2026