IRS Extends the Grace Period for Puerto Rico BFR until May 31, 2018

Presence of Certain Individuals in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or the United
States Virgin Islands Under Section 937(a) Following Hurricane Irma or Hurricane Maria
Notice 2018-19
SECTION 1. OVERVIEW
 Notice 2017-56, 2017-43 I.R.B. 365, provides relief under section 937(a) of the
Internal Revenue Code for individuals who may otherwise lose their status as a “bona
fide resident” of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or the United States Virgin Islands
(collectively, the “impacted U.S. territories”) under section 937(a) as a result of the
unexpected and prolonged dislocation caused by Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria,
absent an extension of the 14-day period contained in §1.937-1(c)(3)(i)(C)(1). With
respect to the impacted U.S. territories, Notice 2017-56 extended the 14-day period to
117 days, effective beginning September 6, 2017, and ending December 31, 2017.
This Notice provides additional relief to individuals who may otherwise lose their status
as a “bona fide resident” of an impacted U.S. territory because of the continued
dislocation caused by Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria.

SECTION 2. ADDITIONAL RELIEF UNDER THE PRESENCE TEST
 With respect to the impacted U.S. territories, the grant of relief in Notice 2017-56 is
extended to 268 days, effective beginning September 6, 2017, and ending May 31,
2018.

SECTION 3. EFFECT ON OTHER DOCUMENTS
 Notice 2017-56, 2017-43 I.R.B. 365, is modified.
Section 4. DRAFTING INFORMATION
 The principal author of this notice is Alan S. Williams of the Office of Associate Chief
Counsel (International). For further information regarding this Notice, contact Mr.
Williams at (202) 317-6941 (not a toll free call).