Tropical Storm Irene is months behind us, but Vermonters are still working hard to recover.  I hope you find these resources helpful.  If I can be of assistance to you, please don't hesitate to call at 1-888-605-7270.

Individuals -- If you need assistance or information about any programs in place to help Vermonters impacted by Tropical Storm Irene, please call 2-1-1.  A network of caseworkers is available to connect Vermonters with local, state, and federal resources and information.  See these resources for individuals at the State of Vermont’s Vermont Strong page.

Businesses - If you need information about resources available for businesses, please contact the Vermont Small Business Administration at (802) 828-4422 and visit Vermont Strong for business resources.  

Farms -- There are many local, state and federal resources available to help farmers who suffered crop or livestock loss, damage or loss of property.  Please contact your local Farm Service Agency office, and visit the Vermont Strong website for resources available to agricultural producers.

Tax Relief -- As you prepare your federal income taxes for 2011, please note that you may be eligible to deduct some damages on your return.  See my resource guide below for information.

Did you suffer property damage in Tropical Storm Irene?

If so, you will need to report losses on your 2011 federal tax return. You may be eligible for tax relief related to these losses.

What type of tax relief might be available for flood victims?

Filing extensions

Disaster-related casualty loss claims

Waiver of fees and expedited requests of previous tax returns

Is tax relief available for business impacted by the flood?

Business owners may elect to deduct qualified expenses. See the IRS website Publication 2194B: Disaster Losses Kit for Businesses for more information.

Where should you go for more information about tax relief for individuals?

This IRS website has tax information for Vermonters impacted by flooding. You might also look for Publication 2194: Disaster Losses Kit for Individuals. Look at pages 23-45 for a helpful list of losses that qualify. The IRS FAQs for Disaster Victims outlines information for casualty losses, expensing of qualified disaster expenses, and other filing requirements. To contact the IRS toll-free disaster hotline, call 1-866-562-5227.

What should you know about Vermont income taxes and flood damage?

Vermont state income taxes reflect the federal income tax system. Specific flood-related losses do not need to be documented separately with the State of Vermont. For information about Vermont income taxes, contact the State of Vermont Department of Taxes at their website.

How does an Individual Assistance grant from FEMA affect my taxes?

According to the IRS, individuals may deduct only those personal property losses that have not been covered by insurance or other reimbursements (such as Individual Assistance grants). For details, see IRS Form 4684.

Where can flood victims go for help in preparing your taxes?

The Vermont Society of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) is offering free or reduced-fee tax preparation and consultation services to victims of Tropical Storm Irene. There are special forms and requirements for casualty losses. Members of the Society are working around the state to help those affected. Contact Carolyn Stevens, CPA at 802-485-6448 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Additionally, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation services to Vermonters making under $50,000 per year. The program is a partnership between the IRS and the Chittenden County CASH Coalition, local United Way agencies and Community Action agencies. To find a location near you, click here or dial 2-1-1. To find out more about VITA in Vermont, click here.

Are you a low income taxpayer who cannot afford professional tax assistance but don't qualify for VITA?

You may qualify for help from Low Income Taxpayer Clinics.

Do you need assistance with state and property tax issues?

Contact the State of Vermont Taxpayer Advocate at (802) 828-2535. Information related to Tropical Storm Irene can be found on Page 3 of the following Vermont Department of Taxes website.

Vermont Strong is maintained by the State of Vermont as a clearinghouse of information to help Vermonters recover from Tropical Storm Irene. Visit the Vermont Strong website for all resources and information related to recovery efforts.

If you need further assistance, please contact me by calling 888-605-7270.