What Is Tax Season?
Tax season is that stretch from January 1 to around April 15 each year when you, as a taxpayer, get ready to report your taxable income from the previous year to the federal government and usually your state too.
You know Tax Day in the U.S. is typically April 15, but if it lands on a weekend, it shifts to the next Monday. Sometimes deadlines get extended for everyone or specific groups, and the IRS lists any delays from natural disasters on their site.
If you submit your return after the deadline, expect late penalties and interest. You can get an extension for filing the paperwork, but remember, it doesn't delay paying any taxes you owe.
For this year, tax season kicked off on January 1, 2025, with the filing deadline set for Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Key Takeaways
Mark your calendar: Tax Day is Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
You should have all forms detailing your 2024 taxable income by the end of January 2025. If you're an employee, look for a W-2; independent contractors, that's a Form 1099 for you.
Got a brokerage account? Expect a Form 1099-B. And if you're on Social Security benefits, the government sends you a Form 1099.
Understanding Tax Season
I don't expect you to spend three and a half months buried in taxes. Tax season gives employers, banks, and other providers time to gather and send out the info you need to file your return.
Employers have until January 31 to send W-2s to employees. For businesses hiring independent contractors, they send Form 1099-NEC—the one that replaced 1099-MISC, which is still used for things like rent or prizes.
If you're an independent contractor, you must file a return and pay self-employment taxes on net earnings of $400 or more.
Important Advice on Records
The IRS recommends keeping copies of your tax returns for at least three years. If you face an audit, you'll need to show the last three years' documents, and in cases like suspected fraud, that extends to seven years.
Why Filing Early Can Make Sense
Plenty of people wait until the last minute to file, but you don't have to. Filing early has real advantages.
The top one? If you're due a refund, you'll get it sooner. File late, and your return sits in a massive backlog.
The IRS started accepting 2024 returns on January 27, 2025. Even if you don't file right away, start preparing early to collect deduction evidence, avoid late-night stress, give your accountant more time, and beat identity thieves to the punch.
How Early in 2025 Can I Start Filing My Taxes?
The IRS began accepting 2024 returns on January 27, 2025. If you're filing directly, set up an account at IRS.gov/account for helpful filing info.
Do I Need to Pay to Get My Taxes Done?
The IRS notes that most single and married taxpayers can file federal returns electronically for free via IRS.gov or the IRS2Go app, no matter your income.
Through IRS partnerships, if your income is below certain thresholds, you can use various tax software programs at no cost. State taxes follow their own rules, though.
When Should I Receive My Tax Refund in 2025?
The IRS says most refunds come within 21 calendar days of filing. File early, and you'll see it fastest.
The Bottom Line
Tax season is when you—individuals, couples, and some businesses—prep your docs for tax filing, due around April 15 each year. You start getting necessary forms in January, so the season runs from January 1 to April 15.
Gather your paperwork and complete forms using software or IRS.gov. Get it in by the deadline, with any owed taxes, to skip penalties and interest.
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