Iowans in counties that’ve been declared federal disaster areas are getting a break from the Internal Revenue Service. I-R-S spokeswoman Donna Migazzi says residents of the 18 counties can get an extension on tax returns that were due on or after April 8th and before August 15th. Migazzi says they also won’t be charged any penalties or interest for filing late.All you have to do is write “Iowa storm, tornado or flood disaster” in red at the top of the return, and the county’s name. Migazzi says those with flood or storm damage can also deduct the damages from their 2000 federal returns instead of waiting until next year. For more information, Migazzi says you can call the IRS toll free at 800-829-1040, or ask for help at a FEMA disaster office.The Iowa counties declared federal disaster areas are: Allamakee, Buchanan, Calhoun, Clayton, Clinton, Des Moines, Dubuque, Humboldt, Jackson, Lee, Louisa, Muscatine, Palo Alto, Ringgold, Sac, Scott, Wapello and Webster.
