Bill would pause tax penalties for Americans held hostage abroad
Passed both chambersH.R. 9496Latest action
Sponsor: Claudia Tenney · Representative · NY
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: End Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
The bill halts tax penalties, interest, and deadlines for Americans wrongfully detained or held hostage overseas.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill pauses tax deadlines, penalties, and interest charges for the entire time an American is wrongfully detained or held hostage abroad, extending the same protection to their spouse. It also creates a process for the IRS, State Department, and Hostage Recovery Fusion Cell to identify people detained since January 2021 and refund any penalties or interest they already paid. Eligible individuals must be notified within 90 days of release or within 90 days of the law taking effect.
Who does it affect?
Americans who have been or will be wrongfully detained or taken hostage overseas, and their spouses and families.
Why does it matter?
Without this change, detained Americans could face IRS penalties and missed deadlines despite being unable to manage tax paperwork during captivity.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 29, 2026
- House committee
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's deskYou are here · Sep 30, 2026
Right now: both chambers have passed it. It goes to the president next.
Latest action: — Passed Senate without amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S5238-5239)