**IRS Announces Start Date of 2025 Tax Season**
With 2025 well underway and millions of American workers now receiving their W-2 forms from employers, the burning question on everyone’s mind is: when can we start filing our taxes? The answer has finally arrived as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has officially announced that tax returns will be accepted starting on Jan. 27, kicking off a filing period that will run through Tax Day on April 15.
**Massive Overhaul Underway**
The IRS made this announcement amidst a significant overhaul aimed at enhancing its technology and customer service processes. This transformation is being fueled by the tens of billions of dollars allocated to the agency through the Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law back in August 2022. As part of this initiative, the IRS is expanding its Direct File program, allowing people to file their taxes directly with the agency for free.
**Direct File Program Expansion**
The Direct File program enables taxpayers to calculate and submit their returns directly to the government without the need for commercial tax preparation software. This year, the program will be available in 25 states, including Illinois and Wisconsin, marking a significant increase from the 12 states included in last year’s pilot program. In 2024, participants in the pilot program claimed over $90 million in refunds by filing directly with the IRS.
**Fast Refunds and Improved Service**
For those eagerly awaiting their tax refunds, the IRS anticipates issuing most refunds in less than 21 days. Taxpayers can track the status of their refunds using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool within 24 hours of e-filing. Additionally, the agency aims to maintain its high levels of service, with wait times for assistance expected to be under 5 minutes.
**Public Awareness Efforts and Tax Scams**
IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about the Earned Income Tax Credit, as many eligible taxpayers are not claiming it due to lack of information about it. Werfel also warned taxpayers to remain vigilant against tax scams during the filing season, urging them to visit IRS.gov and search for “scams” to stay informed about potential threats.
As the IRS continues its efforts to enhance its operations, Werfel stressed the significance of sustained investment in the nation’s tax system to ensure continued progress and efficiency. This period of improvement for the IRS highlights the potential for further advancements with ongoing support and resources.
In conclusion, as the 2025 tax season kicks off, taxpayers can look forward to streamlined processes, faster refunds, and enhanced services, all made possible by the IRS’s ongoing commitment to modernization and efficiency. So, are you ready to tackle your taxes this year and make the most of the available resources and tools?
