The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) anticipates that over 140 million individual tax returns will be filed for the 2024 tax year before the federal deadline of Tuesday, April 15, 2025. With tax season underway, the IRS is urging taxpayers to take advantage of various filing options and enhancements to simplify the process.
Key highlights for this tax season include:
- Over half of all tax returns are expected to be filed with the help of tax professionals.
- The IRS strongly advises taxpayers to use trusted tax professionals to avoid scams and fraudulent schemes.
- Enhanced online tools and features will streamline the filing process and improve the taxpayer experience.
Modernization efforts and expanded taxpayer assistance
The IRS continues to modernize its services, implementing new tools to improve accessibility and efficiency:
- Enhanced Virtual Assistance: More access to tax account information via text and voice virtual assistants.
- IRS Individual Online Account: Expanded features allow taxpayers to manage their accounts, view tax details, and track payments.
- Mobile Accessibility: Dozens of tax forms are now accessible via cell phones and tablets.
- Fraud Protection: Improved scam alerts and notifications help taxpayers stay informed about potential threats.
- Taxpayer Assistance Centers: Increased availability of in-person help and reduced wait times for phone support.
- Redesigned Notices: Over 280 notices have been revamped for clarity, with additional redesigns planned for 2025.
In recent years, these improvements have significantly enhanced taxpayer service levels:
- IRS service levels reached 85% during the past two filing seasons.
- Phone wait times averaged less than five minutes on the main IRS helplines.
- Taxpayer Assistance Centers served a record number of individuals nationwide.
According to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, “These taxpayer-focused improvements we’ve done so far are important, but they are just the beginning of what the IRS needs to do. More can be done with continued investment in the nation’s tax system.”
Free tax filing options and expanded direct file program
Direct file program now available in 25 states
The Direct File program, initially launched as a pilot, will be available starting January 27, 2025, in 25 states.
- Newly added states: Alaska, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
- Returning pilot states: Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
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New features in Direct File include:
- Data import tool: Allows automatic import of tax data from IRS accounts.
- Enhanced chatbot assistance: Provides real-time guidance on eligibility.
- Expanded tax credit coverage:
- Child and Dependent Care Credit
- Premium Tax Credit
- Credit for the Elderly and Disabled
- Retirement Savings Contribution Credit
- Health Savings Account deductions
Direct File is compatible with mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and desktops, guiding users step-by-step through the federal filing process. Once completed, taxpayers are directed to state tax filing resources as needed.
IRS free file program opens early
For those seeking additional free filing options, the IRS Free File program is now open, offering electronic filing for eligible taxpayers.
- Available exclusively on IRS.gov.
- Eight private-sector partners offer tax software at no cost to individuals earning $84,000 or less in 2024.
- Spanish-language filing option available through select providers.
- Free File allows taxpayers to prepare and submit returns before the official IRS acceptance date of January 27.
Additional free tax assistance programs
Beyond Direct File and Free File, the IRS offers additional free services for eligible taxpayers:
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Provides free tax help for working families, the elderly, disabled individuals, and non-English speakers.
- Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE): Specializes in tax assistance for seniors.
- MilTax: A Department of Defense program offering free federal and state tax filing for military members and select veterans.
IRS encourages the use of trusted professionals and online tools
With various scams targeting taxpayers, the IRS advises individuals to:
- Verify the legitimacy of tax professionals before seeking assistance.
- Utilize IRS.gov resources for accurate information.
- Use “Where’s My Refund?” to track refund status within 24 hours of e-filing.
- Access IRS virtual assistants for support in English and Spanish.
The IRS is committed to improving tax filing services continuously. By 2025, it aims to provide an efficient, secure, and user-friendly experience for all taxpayers.
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