Update 10/13/2025: IRS Shutdown

The IRS Shutdown: What It Means for You (and How We’re Keeping Watch So You Don’t Have To)

If you’ve been following the news, you’ve probably heard the buzz: the IRS has officially scaled back operations due to the government shutdown. Nearly half of its workforce has been furloughed, leaving only essential staff on duty to handle critical taxpayer services.

So, what does that actually mean for you—the business owner, freelancer, or taxpayer just trying to stay compliant and keep things running smoothly? Let’s break it down in plain language.

What’s Still Running (The Essentials)

Even during a shutdown, the IRS can’t close its doors completely. Certain operations are considered essential or legally required, which means they continue no matter what.

Here’s what’s still happening behind the scenes:

  • Processing tax returns that include payments

  • Posting electronic payments through EFTPS, IRS Direct Pay, and e-file systems

  • Maintaining essential computer systems and taxpayer data

  • Protecting statutes of limitation, liens, and seizure cases

  • Criminal enforcement and fraud investigations

So if you’ve made an online payment or filed electronically, that part’s still in motion.

What’s Paused or Delayed

On the flip side, many non-essential IRS services are temporarily on hold. That includes:

  • Call centers and taxpayer assistance lines (expect longer wait times or no response)

  • Processing mailed correspondence or paper filings

  • Issuing refunds for paper returns or mailed checks

  • Most audits and appeals not tied to enforcement or deadlines

In short: electronic systems are still humming, but paper and manual processes are taking a backseat for now.

What You Can Expect

Here’s what this means in practical terms:

  • E-filing and payments: Still operating as usual.

  • Refunds: If you’re expecting a paper refund, brace for delays. Direct deposit remains the fastest route.

  • IRS Notices and Transcripts: Updates may not appear until operations are fully restored.

At Freedom Line Accounting & Tax, we’re tracking every IRS update daily. The moment full operations resume, we’ll move quickly to process any pending submissions, respond to notices, and keep your tax matters on schedule.

internal revenue service building with traffic lights

How Freedom Line Accounting & Tax Has You Covered

While the IRS is hitting “pause” on some functions, we’re not slowing down one bit.
Our team remains fully active—filing returns, reconciling accounts, and making sure your financials stay on track regardless of what’s happening in Washington.

We believe in proactive service, not reactive scrambling. That means we’re staying one step ahead, so you don’t have to worry about missing a beat.

Because while the IRS might be running on limited capacity, your peace of mind shouldn’t be.

Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.

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