Rhode Island Could Delay 2021 State Tax Deadline

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Islanders could have an extra month to fill out their 2020 state tax returns.

On Wednesday, the Internal Revenue Service announced that federal tax returns will not be due until May 17, a month later than the usual April 15. The Rhode Island Division of Taxation is reviewing guidance from the federal government and will make an announcement soon, Paul Grimaldi, a spokesperson for the state's Department of Revenue, told Patch.

"This continues to be a tough time for many people, and the IRS wants to continue to do everything possible to help taxpayers navigate the unusual circumstances related to the pandemic, while also working on important tax administration responsibilities," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig.

Despite the new deadline, taxpayers are encouraged to file their tax returns as soon as possible, especially those who are getting refunds. Filing quickly using direct deposit will expedite the return of overpayments and owed stimulus funds, Rettig explained.

This is the second year in a row that the IRS has delayed the tax deadline. In April 2020, the department moved the deadline to July 15 following across-the-board shutdowns caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Rhode Island's Division of Taxation followed suit and delayed the state deadline, as well.

Grimaldi went on to say that disbursement of COVID-19 stimulus funding has not impacted how the state processes tax returns or refunds, because they are a federal, not state, matter.

Related: Tax Season 2021: What To Know Before Filing In Rhode Island