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The Internal Revenue Service announces when the tax season starts usually by early January. Tax season starts around late January and ends in mid-April. Be proactive about your tax affairs in 2025. Below, we will walk you through when does tax season start, including key dates, deadlines, and filing tips.
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When Does Tax Season Start?
The tax season runs for three months, usually from late January to April 15. The IRS has still not announced when does income tax season start. Usually, they begin accepting federal returns (and most state filings) between January 15 and January 31.
The tax filing deadline is always the same day each year, April 15 (American’s ‘Tax Day’), except when it falls on a weekend. In those cases, it is extended to Monday, or the next business day if it falls in a holiday.
Good News! For federal income tax purposes, 24 states can now do their tax returns for free starting 2025. Irs.gov has introduced a Direct File program, making it easier for taxpayers to file returns without third-party software. Be sure to check if you can access IRS free file fillable forms in your state when filing this year!
For the 2025 tax season, you can file tax returns as early as the start date as announced by IRS. Wait until you have received all the necessary tax documents, such as W-2s and forms 1099, before filing to avoid mistakes or delays.
Key Dates for Tax Filers
While the official start of tax season is yet to be announced, here are some estimated dates to help you start preparing early.
- W-2 and 1099 Form Deadline: January 31, 2025
- Tax Filing Deadline: April 15, 2025
- First Quarter Estimated Tax Payments (January 1 – March 31): April 15, 2025
- Second Quarter Estimated Tax Payments (April 1 – May 31): June 15, 2025
- Third Quarter Estimated Tax Payments (June 1 – August 31): September 15, 2025
- Fourth Quarter Estimated Tax Payments (September 1- December 31): January 15, 2026
For more information, visit relevant article: When Are Taxes Due 2025?
How to Apply for an Extension
Need more time to file? You can request a tax extension. This gives you six more months to complete your return. To do this, file Form 4868 by April 15, 2025.
Tax-Efficiency Tips [2025]
Maximize Credits and Deductions
Be sure to check if you qualify for any tax credits or deductions. Some popular credits are adjusted for inflation each year, so you might be eligible for one that you were not before.
- Deductions: Consider deductions like mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical expenses. These can reduce your taxable income.
- Credits: Credits directly reduce the amount of tax you owe. Common ones include the Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and credits for energy-efficient home improvements.
Remember: Tax law changes frequently, so be on the lookout for any new or expanded credits available in 2025.
General Tips for Tax and Financial Planning
Inflation is a major economic factor that can influence your tax situation in various ways. As the cost of living rises, the IRS adjusts federal tax brackets, income tax rates, and credits to ensure taxpayers are not unfairly burdened by inflationary pressures. Here are some strategies to consider when planning for inflation in the 2025 tax season:
- Monitor Inflation Rates: Stay informed about inflation trends to anticipate impacts on your income and deductions.
- Adjust Your Withholding: If your income has increased, adjust your withholding to avoid a significant tax bill.
- Consider Tax-Loss Harvesting: Sell investments with losses to offset capital gains and reduce your tax liability.
- Maximize Credits: Be proactive in claiming any credits you qualify for, as these can help offset the impact of inflation on your taxes.
How Not to File Your Tax Returns
The IRS has highlighted some common mistakes that could trip you up during tax season—and they are easier to avoid than you might think.
Filing Too Early
While it is tempting to get a head start, filing your return too early can backfire. If you do not have all your tax documents (like W-2s or 1099s), you risk filling out incomplete information, which could slow down the process. Patience can save you a lot of frustration later.
Missing or Inaccurate Social Security Numbers
Believe it or not, a common error is entering the wrong Social Security number. Every SSN on your tax return needs to match exactly what is on your Social Security card. Even a small mistake can cause major delays.
Misspelled Names
Spelling errors may seem minor, but if the names on your return do not match what is on your Social Security cards, your return could get flagged. Double-check this to keep things running smoothly.
Inaccurate Information
Be extra careful when entering your income details, like wages, dividends, or bank interest. Make sure you report these amounts accurately, as mistakes could mean the IRS has to step in and make corrections, which might slow down your refund.
Incorrect Filing Status
Choosing the wrong filing status can lead to bigger tax bills or missed deductions. Make sure you select the right one for your situation—whether you are filing as single, married filing jointly, or heads of household. It is always wise to double-check.
FAQs on US Tax Filing
Yes, you can still file your taxes after the April 15 deadline, but you may face penalties for filing late. If you think you will miss the deadline, it is a good idea to file for an extension by submitting Form 4868, which gives you until October 15 to file.
If you realize you have made a mistake after filing, you can file an amended tax return using Form 1040-X. This allows you to correct errors, such as misreported income, incorrect deductions, or even mistakes in filing status.
For the 2025 tax filing season, eligible taxpayers in 24 states will be able to use Direct File, which is the free US e-filing service. New states include Alaska, Connecticut, Idaho, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Get Ahead of Tax Season 2025
So, when does tax season start? For Americans, it is as soon as January does! The earlier you begin preparing, the smoother your experience will be. You can file your taxes yourself or let an expert take it over for you. Legend Fusions will make sure your filing is done right the first time, down to the last detail!
Get started today and make 2025 your easiest tax season yet!
Reviewed by:
Hira Asif
Hira Asif, Client Manager (US) at Legend Fusions, brings over 11 years of tax expertise, including 8 years with Ernst & Young. Her work focuses on tax advisory, compliance, and planning for individuals, partnerships, and private equity funds. With a deep knowledge of federal, state, and local tax regulations, Hira is skilled in identifying tax planning opportunities and reviewing corporate and partnership tax returns to optimize compliance and reduce exposures.