DMJPS shares in the ongoing discussion and concern of how the coronavirus virus may affect our community, nation, and world. We also believe in the recommendation that preparation continues to be the highest priority for our state’s business community, and we support all efforts to protect the health and safety of our employees, clients, and community at large.

Should any additional measures be required, be assured that DMJPS has a contingency plan in place to ensure that all firm professionals and staff will continue to provide you with uninterrupted service. As a firm, DMJPS has all the capabilities at its disposal to carry on as a remote workforce if necessary. Our technologies include a paperless work environment. We have communicated workplace guidelines to our DMJPS team members and have implemented strategies in our workplace that align with the recommendations to do our part in prevention.

While all DMJPS offices in Greensboro, Durham, Sanford, and Wilmington remain very much open for business, it may also be beneficial to remind clients and contacts of electronic and virtual resources offered by DMJ, particularly when submitting tax return information.

For those DMJPS clients practicing social distancing, or you do not feel comfortable coming to a DMJPS office in person, these options are available to you:

• Email remains the most effective option for electronic communication.
• Electronic document sharing may be arranged using DMJ’s secure portal. If you would like to be set up on the firm’s portal, please contact Nicole Bateman at nbateman@dmj.com, or your DMJPS contact.
• Electronic signature of documents is available using DocuSign. Electronic signature of tax returns is available using SafeSend. See your DMJPS contact.
• Consider using virtual meetings, conference calls, and video conferencing via GoToMeeting as an alternative to in-person meetings.
• All DMJPS offices offer “Drop Boxes” located outside these offices near or beside our entry doors.
• Send documents via FedEx, UPS, USPS, or any courier service.

Tax Update on the Response to the Covid-19 Outbreak

This is a unique time for our industry – the heart of tax season. Our team is actively monitoring the proposed tax extension as a response to COVID-19. We will communicate the rapidly-developing situation and modify plans if needed.

There is much talk in the media from Congress and the Administration about various tax relief that could be provided as relief to the Covid-19 economic downturn. Please note that we will keep you apprised of what is going on, but this is just talk and proposals right now. No federal relief has been put into place as of this writing, either by executive action or by legislation.

The ideas being considered include –

• Delayed filing deadlines, possibly including March 15 and April 15.
• Delayed tax payments with penalty relief and possibly interest relief.
• Payroll tax holidays.
• The American Institute of CPAs has made several, specific suggestions for relief. These are only suggestions and none have been adopted.

These are only proposals. Nothing has changed yet as to payment obligations, filing responsibilities, or changes in any tax due. We will let you know as soon as we have actionable details of any relief plan.

Keep in mind that, no matter what the federal government may decide, this does not mean that state and local governments will follow suit. Their response would have to be considered as well. For example, extended property tax returns may still be due on April 15 (in most NC counties). In addition, any payment or filing relief for federal purposes may not apply to states.

These are only proposals. Nothing has changed yet as to payment obligations, filing responsibilities, or changes in any tax due.

In addition, DMJPS joins in the community efforts to share up-to-date resources and tools for individuals and businesses.

• Coronavirus Resource Guide by the NC Chamber
• Visit both the CDC and NCDHHS for recommendations and precautions
• NC Coronavirus Hotline: 866-462-3821

DMJPS has one simple objective that guides us – keeping you and our employees safe. This has been at the center of our conversation every step of the way. As we navigate this unique time, it is our sincere hope that you and your loved ones remain healthy. We wish everyone well and our thoughts are with those directly impacted by coronavirus.