Short answer: Even during a government shutdown, tax obligations generally still apply because tax laws remain in effect and the IRS continues to collect taxes, process payments, and enforce deadlines to the extent possible. However, many IRS operations are reduced, which can affect processing times, help availability, and certain services. Key points

• Tax deadlines and obligations usually stay in effect. If you owe taxes, expect to continue making payments and filing by the usual due dates. [web results summarized from current coverage]
• Some IRS functions may be temporarily limited. Call centers, some correspondence processing, and nonessential services may be slower or unavailable, which can increase wait times for help or responses. [web results summarized from current coverage]
• Extensions and disaster declarations can modify deadlines for some taxpayers, but routine payments and filings often remain due unless specifically extended. If you were granted a federal tax extension, the deadline for filing may shift, but payment obligations commonly still apply for many filers. [web results summarized from current coverage]
• Other federal programs (like Pell Grants or USPS operations) may continue or be affected differently, but these do not change the core requirement to file and pay taxes. [web results summarized from current coverage]

What you can do now

• Verify the exact tax deadlines that apply to your situation (filing, payment, and any extensions) with official IRS notices or a trusted tax professional. [web results summarized from current coverage]
• If you need help, try electronic tools on IRS.gov and be aware that some assistance channels may have limited hours during a shutdown. [web results summarized from current coverage]
• Keep records of all payments and filings, and monitor any notices from the IRS for updated guidance as the shutdown situation evolves. [web results summarized from current coverage]

If you’d like, I can pull the latest official IRS guidance and summarize the specific deadlines that affect you based on your filing status and location.