IRS Announces Start of 2025 Tax Filing Season and Expanded Free File Program

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the official start of the 2025 tax filing season, which begins on Monday, January 27, 2025. This year’s season will include expanded tools, modernized features, and an improved taxpayer experience thanks to the agency’s ongoing efforts to enhance its services.

Key Dates and Expectations

• Tax Season Start Date: Monday, January 27, 2025
• Federal Tax Deadline: Tuesday, April 15, 2025
• Expected Returns: Over 140 million individual tax returns for tax year 2024.

The IRS emphasizes the importance of working with a trusted tax professional to avoid scams and inaccuracies. Over half of all taxpayers are expected to seek professional assistance this year.

Enhanced IRS Tools and Services for 2025

The 2025 tax season reflects the IRS’s commitment to modernization, with several upgrades aimed at improving efficiency and convenience:

1. Expanded Access to Tax Information:
   • New text and voice virtual assistants to help taxpayers.
   • Enhanced features in the IRS Individual Online Account, including mobile-adaptive forms and the ability to view over 200 electronic notices.
2. Mobile-Friendly Services:
   • Access to 67 tax forms on mobile devices with “save and draft” capabilities for easy completion.
3. Enhanced Fraud Protection:
   • Alerts on the IRS Online Account homepage to warn taxpayers about potential scams.
4. Redesigned IRS Notices:
   • Over 200 redesigned notices available online for quick and clear communication.

Expanded Free File and Direct File Programs

Free File Program Now Open

The IRS Free File program, available exclusively on IRS.gov, offers free guided tax software for individuals with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less. Now in its 23rd year, this program is available in both English and Spanish and allows taxpayers to start preparing their returns immediately. Returns will be held until filing officially opens on January 27.

Direct File Launches in 25 States

Beginning January 27, 2025, taxpayers in 25 states can use Direct File to complete their federal returns directly through the IRS website, free of charge. This expansion builds on last year’s successful pilot program and now includes 13 additional states.

New States for Direct File in 2025: Alaska, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

New Features in Direct File:

• Automatic data imports from IRS accounts (e.g., W-2 information).
• Expanded credit support, including the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Premium Tax Credit, and Retirement Savings Contribution Credits.
• Enhanced chatbot and live chat assistance in English and Spanish.

Improved Taxpayer Support

Building on high service levels from previous years, the IRS aims to continue delivering efficient customer service:

• Call Wait Times: Averaging less than 5 minutes.
• Service Level: 85% or higher on main phone lines.
• In-Person Support: Increased hours at Taxpayer Assistance Centers nationwide.

Additional Filing Options

Taxpayers have other free resources to help with filing, including:

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs for eligible individuals.
• MilTax: A Department of Defense program offering free federal and state tax preparation for military personnel and veterans.

IRS Filing Tips and Reminders

• Filing Electronically: The fastest and safest way to file and receive refunds. Opt for direct deposit to avoid delays.
• Use Trusted Professionals: Visit the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers to find qualified tax professionals.
• Avoid Scams: Learn to identify and steer clear of fraudulent tax preparers or “ghost preparers.”

New for 2025: Series I Bonds

Starting January 1, 2025, taxpayers will no longer be able to purchase paper Series I Savings Bonds with their tax refunds. Instead, these bonds will be available electronically through TreasuryDirect.

Stay Prepared

Taxpayers are encouraged to visit the IRS’s Get Ready page to access tools, tips, and checklists for a smooth filing season. For updates, visit IRS.gov or check the Where’s My Refund? tool for real-time information on refund processing.

With expanded resources, modernized tools, and enhanced services, the IRS is committed to making the 2025 tax season as smooth and efficient as possible. Plan ahead, stay informed, and file with confidence!