The 2025 tax season officially kicked off on Monday, January 27. Whether you’re filing for the first time or you’re a seasoned filer, there are several important deadlines and resources to keep in mind.
Essential Tax Dates
Here are some key dates to mark on your calendar for the 2025 tax season:
- January 27: The start of the tax filing season, with the IRS beginning to accept and process returns for 2024.
- April 15: The federal tax filing deadline (Tax Day).
- October 15: The final deadline for those who file an extension.
Additionally, taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas—such as those impacted by California wildfires—may receive extra time to file and pay their federal taxes.
Tools to Make Tax Filing Easier
The IRS offers a range of tools to simplify the tax filing process:
- IRS.gov: Visit this site for general information and to access various online services.
- Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA): This tool answers specific tax-related questions to help clarify any uncertainties.
- IRS Free File: A free online tool for qualifying taxpayers to file their taxes electronically.
- IRS Direct File: An online filing option for those who meet specific eligibility requirements.
- VITA & TCE: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free tax help for qualifying individuals.
You can also track your federal refund status using the Where’s My Refund? tool on the IRS website.
Watch Out for Scammers
Tax season often sees a rise in scams, so it’s important to stay vigilant. Avoid falling for fraudulent claims or social media posts offering “too good to be true” tax advice. If you suspect identity theft, the IRS advises continuing to file your tax return and paying any owed taxes, even if you must file a paper return.
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Getting Ready to File
The IRS requires that W-2 forms be sent out by January 31, and 1099 forms typically arrive by the end of the month as well. If you received over $5,000 in payments for goods and services through a marketplace or payment app in 2024, expect a Form 1099-K to arrive in January.
Filing Deadlines and Extensions
While April 15 is the deadline for most tax filers, there is an option to file for an extension if more time is needed. Keep in mind that an extension only gives extra time to file the return, not to pay any taxes owed. The extension must be requested by April 15, and the new filing deadline is October 15.
Ways to request an extension:
- Pay Online: Make a payment and check the box to request an extension.
- Use Free File: File an extension electronically using the IRS Free File tool.
- File Form 4868: This paper form allows you to request an extension by mail.
Filing Late? Here’s What You Should Know
Filing late can lead to penalties, with the standard penalty being 5% of unpaid taxes for every month the return is delayed, up to 25% of the unpaid amount. If you need extra time to contribute to retirement accounts (like an IRA or HSA), the deadline for contributions is also April 15.
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When Will You Get Your Refund?
The IRS typically issues refunds within 21 days for those who file electronically and choose direct deposit. Paper returns take longer. To ensure quicker processing, be sure to opt for direct deposit to receive your refund straight into your bank account.
In 2024, the average federal tax refund was about $3,138.
Stay ahead this tax season by marking these key dates and utilizing the IRS’s available tools to file your return securely and efficiently.
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