Gulf Oil Spill Information Center

Notice: Historical Content


This is an archival or historical document and may not reflect current law, policies or procedures.

Updated February 3, 2011 — Additional questions and answers and a new notice are now available below through links on this page.

Help for Taxpayers

The IRS has opened a special telephone line for taxpayers affected by the Gulf oil spill. Those with questions about the BP payments or who are experiencing filing or payment hardships because of the oil spill should contact the IRS at 866-562-5227. The special services phone line will operate weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time.

Payments and Claims

The existing law dictates whether payments received from BP for losses, damage and injuries are taxable. See these technical questions and answers for more.

Reason for Payment

Tax Treatment

Lost wages or income Taxable
Property damage Non-taxable (if payment does not exceed basis in property)
Physical injury Non-taxable

Other Resources

For more resources on tax issues, see the Individuals, Small Business and Self-Employed and Forms and Publications sections of this website.

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