The Internal Revenue Service announced Monday that Mainers affected by the storms and flooding from December 2023 will get an extension on their filing and payment deadlines.

Those impacted by the storm and related flooding can file individual or business tax returns or make payments as late as June 17.

The extensions apply to “individuals and households that reside or have a business in” Androscoggin, Franklin, Hancock, Kennebec, Oxford, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset, Waldo and Washington Counties.

The storm, which struck on Dec. 17, 2023, brought high winds that knocked out power to more than half a million customers at the time. Fallen trees and other debris blocked roads throughout the state, with an estimated $20 million in damage to public infrastructure alone.  

Heavy rains, combined with snow melting in the mountains, led to major rivers such as the Kennebec and Androscoggin rising well above flood stage. 

President Joe Biden issued a federal disaster declaration on Jan. 31, freeing up federal funding to assist with the cleanup.

Along with the filing extension, the IRS noted that individuals and businesses who suffered financial losses that were not insured or reimbursed may be able to claim the losses on their tax returns. For more details on federal disaster recovery efforts, visit DisasterAssistance.gov.