NATP: IRS shutdown could paralyze 2026 tax season, calls for swift Congressional action
With IRS services stalled and tax season right around the corner, the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is urging Congress to end the government shutdown immediately, warning that further delay could derail refund processing, confuse millions of taxpayers and destabilize the upcoming filing season.
In a formal letter sent to Congressional leadership, NATP outlined the severe risks posed by prolonged disruption of IRS operations, especially in light of recent staffing reductions and new tax law implementation deadlines.
“Each day of this shutdown chips away at the IRS’s capacity to serve taxpayers and support small businesses,” said Scott Artman, CPA, CGMA, CEO of NATP. “Tax professionals are preparing for filing season, but without a functioning IRS, they’re operating in the dark.”
The letter highlights the risks of delayed refunds, inaccessible IRS help centers and backlogged correspondence – issues that disproportionately impact lower-income taxpayers, small businesses and filers relying on new tax credits.
Shutdown risks to taxpayers and preparers
- Refunds delayed: IRS systems can’t process returns efficiently during a shutdown
- Penalties continue: Interest accrues even when taxpayers can’t reach the IRS
- Guidance blocked: Preparers can’t access updated rules or speak with agency reps
- Confidence shaken: The tax system depends on responsiveness and clarity
The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is the largest nonprofit organization that works exclusively for tax professionals. We serve members through education, advocacy and community, providing the tools they need to navigate the tax code and the insights the media can trust.
Looking for a tax expert? Tom O’Saben, EA, director of tax content and government relations at NATP, is available for phone or video interviews to discuss federal tax topics, including tax law change and its implications, taxpayer issues, tax preparer regulation and more. To schedule an interview with O’Saben, contact [email protected] or [email protected].