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March 23, 2020

More U.S. COVID-19 Response, Including Changes To Federal Tax Filing Deadline, Employer I-9 Requirements

In addition to signing two stimulus and emergency response spending bills, to meet the challenge of COVID-19, the federal government has:

  • Extended the deadline for filing federal income taxes to July 15, 2020. Taxpayers can also defer federal income tax payments due on April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed. This deferment applies to all taxpayers, including individuals, trusts and estates, corporations and other non-corporate tax filers as well as those who pay self-employment tax. Visit the IRS website for more guidance.
  • Issued an executive order invoking certain provisions of the Defense Production Act, which could be used to ramp up production of essential medical equipment. Click here for an overview of the DPA from the National Association of Manufacturers.
  • Restricted nonessential travel (travel for tourism or recreation) between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The travel restrictions do not apply to cross-border trade. The restrictions went into effect on March 21 and will be in place for 30 days. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has more information here.
  • Issued new Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines about whether companies can require individuals take medical tests before returning to work. Click here to read all of the EEOC’s guidance regarding COVID-19.
  • Announced flexibility for employers related to Form I-9 compliance. Employers are traditionally required to complete Form I-9 requirements in person, but that requirement has been waived. DHS has more information here.
  • Waived hours of service regulations for truck drivers moving essential supplies for direct assistance to the response of COVID-19. Click here for more information.

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