WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) officially launched the 2025 tax filing season on Monday, January 27, and has begun accepting and processing individual tax returns for the 2024 tax year. The agency expects to receive more than 140 million tax returns ahead of the April 15 filing deadline. Taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas may qualify for extended deadlines.
The IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically and opt for direct deposit to ensure the fastest and most secure refunds. “According to Treasury’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service, paper refund checks are 16 times more likely to have an issue, like the check being lost, misdirected, stolen or uncashed,” the IRS noted. For those seeking assistance, IRS.gov provides various resources, including the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) to address common questions and free filing options.
Eligible taxpayers with income of $84,000 or less can access IRS Free File for guided preparation and electronic filing. Additionally, the new Direct File program, available in 25 states, allows users to file federal taxes directly online for free in both English and Spanish. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs also offer free services for specific groups, including seniors and low-income individuals. Military members and veterans can utilize MilTax, a Department of Defense program offering free preparation and filing services.
The majority of refunds are expected to be issued within 21 days, though the IRS urges taxpayers not to rely solely on receiving refunds by a specific date. Taxpayers claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) should note that refunds for these credits will not be available until early March due to the PATH Act, which mandates additional processing time.
The IRS also underscores the need for vigilance against tax scams during filing season. Scammers often promise inflated refunds, demand immediate payments, or impersonate the IRS. Tax-related identity theft remains a concern, as fraudsters use stolen personal information to claim fraudulent refunds. The IRS advises taxpayers to select trusted tax professionals and utilize its online tools to avoid falling victim to unethical practices.
To better serve taxpayers, the IRS has implemented several enhancements, including mobile-friendly tax forms, a redesigned online account tool, upgraded virtual assistants, and improved scam alerts. These measures, along with in-person assistance at Taxpayer Assistance Centers nationwide, aim to streamline the filing process and address taxpayer concerns effectively.
Looking ahead, the IRS calls on taxpayers to take full advantage of available resources and ensure timely, accurate filing. With continued upgrades and safeguards, the agency seeks to enhance the taxpayer experience while fostering compliance and protecting taxpayer data. For more information, visit IRS.gov.
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