IRS tax filing season begins: Key dates and other features you need to know
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The new year brings more than just fresh resolutions—it marks the start of the IRS tax filing season! Now’s the time to gather your paperwork, prepare your finances, and get ready for a potential boost to your bank account.
Will you make the most of this opportunity?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that the 2025 tax season will kick off on Monday, January 27, 2025.
This isn't just another routine year; it marks a significant leap forward due to the agency's historic modernization efforts.
With more than 140 million individual tax returns expected for the 2024 tax year, the IRS is pulling out all the stops to ensure a smooth and efficient process for everyone by the federal deadline of Tuesday, April 15.
The IRS has been hard at work upgrading its systems and services.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel has highlighted the progress made, promising more tools and features to assist taxpayers with their filings.
But what does this mean for you? Let's break down the improvements:
1. Virtual Assistants
Accessing your tax account information has never been easier, thanks to new voice and text virtual assistants.
2. Online Account Features
The IRS Individual Online Account now boasts more features to help you manage your taxes with ease.
3. Mobile-Friendly Forms
Dozens of tax forms are now easily accessible via tablets and smartphones.
4. Fraud Alerts
Stay one step ahead of scammers with more alerts for potential fraud and threats to your financial security.
5. Direct File Service
Enhanced and more accessible than ever, Direct File is available in 25 states starting January 27.
6. IRS Free File
This program, now exclusively accessible on IRS.gov, offers free software solutions to millions of taxpayers.
The IRS is also committed to maintaining the high service levels seen in the 2023 and 2024 tax seasons.
With service levels around 85% and average wait times below five minutes on major phone lines, the agency aims to continue this trend.
For those with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less in 2024, online guided tax software programs from eight commercial sector partners are available, including a Spanish-language option.
Remember, you can prepare and file your returns now and have them held until the official start of e-filing later this month.
As we gear up for this tax season, here are some steps you can take to ensure you're ready:
1. Organize Your Documents: Gather all necessary tax documents, including W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for deductions.
2. Explore Filing Options: Consider whether you'll file independently using IRS Free File or seek the help of a tax professional.
3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from the IRS, especially regarding new tools and services that can aid in your tax filing.
4. Plan for Your Refund: Think about how you'll use any potential refund—whether it's bolstering your savings, investing, or treating yourself to something special.
Have you started preparing for tax season yet? Do you have any tips for making the process smoother? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Will you make the most of this opportunity?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that the 2025 tax season will kick off on Monday, January 27, 2025.
This isn't just another routine year; it marks a significant leap forward due to the agency's historic modernization efforts.
With more than 140 million individual tax returns expected for the 2024 tax year, the IRS is pulling out all the stops to ensure a smooth and efficient process for everyone by the federal deadline of Tuesday, April 15.
New features and capabilities have been added to enhance the taxpayer experience. Image source: Nataliya Vaitkevich/Pexels.
The IRS has been hard at work upgrading its systems and services.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel has highlighted the progress made, promising more tools and features to assist taxpayers with their filings.
But what does this mean for you? Let's break down the improvements:
1. Virtual Assistants
Accessing your tax account information has never been easier, thanks to new voice and text virtual assistants.
2. Online Account Features
The IRS Individual Online Account now boasts more features to help you manage your taxes with ease.
3. Mobile-Friendly Forms
Dozens of tax forms are now easily accessible via tablets and smartphones.
4. Fraud Alerts
Stay one step ahead of scammers with more alerts for potential fraud and threats to your financial security.
5. Direct File Service
Enhanced and more accessible than ever, Direct File is available in 25 states starting January 27.
6. IRS Free File
This program, now exclusively accessible on IRS.gov, offers free software solutions to millions of taxpayers.
The IRS is also committed to maintaining the high service levels seen in the 2023 and 2024 tax seasons.
With service levels around 85% and average wait times below five minutes on major phone lines, the agency aims to continue this trend.
For those with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less in 2024, online guided tax software programs from eight commercial sector partners are available, including a Spanish-language option.
Remember, you can prepare and file your returns now and have them held until the official start of e-filing later this month.
As we gear up for this tax season, here are some steps you can take to ensure you're ready:
1. Organize Your Documents: Gather all necessary tax documents, including W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for deductions.
2. Explore Filing Options: Consider whether you'll file independently using IRS Free File or seek the help of a tax professional.
3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from the IRS, especially regarding new tools and services that can aid in your tax filing.
4. Plan for Your Refund: Think about how you'll use any potential refund—whether it's bolstering your savings, investing, or treating yourself to something special.
