IRS announces the start of the 2025 tax filing season with new tools and features

The IRS has announced that the 2025 tax season will begin on Monday, January 27, 2025, offering expanded tools and features for taxpayers as part of the agency’s ongoing modernization efforts.

This year's improvements are expected to enhance the tax filing process and make it easier for taxpayers to access essential resources.

Key dates and expectations for the 2025 tax season

• Start date: January 27, 2025
• Filing deadline: April 15, 2025 (Tuesday)
• Expected returns: Over 140 million individual tax returns for the 2024 tax year

More than half of these returns are anticipated to be filed with the help of tax professionals.

The IRS strongly encourages taxpayers to work with trusted professionals to avoid scams or errors.

Expanded IRS tools and filing options

Improvements in IRS Online Accounts

Taxpayers now have enhanced access to their IRS Individual Online Accounts.

New features include:

• Access to tax return details: View adjusted gross income and other key return information.
• Document signing: Electronically sign tax forms like powers of attorney.
• Language preferences: Update preferred language settings for communication.
• Payment management: Set up or modify payment plans and make payments directly.
• Enhanced alerts: Receive notifications about scams and suspicious activities directly on your account homepage.

Mobile-accessible tax forms

This year, 67 IRS forms are mobile-friendly, with new “save and draft” capabilities allowing taxpayers to start and finish forms at their convenience.

Virtual assistance tools

• Voicebot services: Available in English and Spanish, the voicebots provide immediate help for refund inquiries without needing to wait for a live agent.
• Online chatbots: Advanced chatbots with natural language processing guide taxpayers through various tax queries.

Direct File: Expanded and upgraded for 2025

What is Direct File?

Direct File is a free, web-based tax filing service offered directly by the IRS.

It allows eligible taxpayers to file federal tax returns without the need for third-party software.

Expanded availability

In 2025, Direct File will be available to taxpayers in 25 states, up from 12 in the 2024 pilot.

New states include:

• 2024 states: Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wyoming
• 2025 additions: Alaska, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin

New features in Direct File

• Data import: Automatically import key personal and tax data from your IRS account.
• Expanded credits and deductions: Support now includes:
  • Child and Dependent Care Credit
  • Premium Tax Credit
  • Credit for the Elderly and Disabled
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) deductions
• Live support: Enhanced live chat features in English and Spanish.

Free File program: Early access available

What is a Free File?

Free File is a partnership between the IRS and private tax software providers, offering free tax filing options for taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less in 2024.

Details for 2025

• Start Date: Taxpayers can begin using Free File now, with returns held until Jan. 27.
• Language Options: For the first time, Free File includes a product available in Spanish.

Other free tax filing options

1. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)/Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). Free help for eligible taxpayers, including working families, seniors, and those with limited English proficiency.
2. MilTax. A program for military personnel and some veterans offering free tax filing services for both federal and state returns.

Continued improvements in IRS services

The IRS aims to maintain high service standards seen in recent years:

• Phone support: 85% service level with an average wait time of under 5 minutes.
• In-person assistance: Expanded hours at Taxpayer Assistance Centers nationwide.

Redesigned notices

The IRS has revamped 284 taxpayer notices, making them more user-friendly.

These redesigned notices are also available in the IRS Individual Online Account for easy access.

Refund expectations and updates

Most refunds are issued within 21 days of e-filing. Use the "Where’s My Refund?" tool to check the status of your refund.

NB! Starting January 1, 2025, paper Series I Savings Bonds will no longer be available for purchase using tax refunds. Electronic bonds are available through TreasuryDirect.

IRS tips for choosing a tax professional

The IRS reminds taxpayers to:

• Verify preparer credentials using the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers.
• Avoid unethical "ghost" preparers who fail to sign or file returns on your behalf.

Final thoughts

With significant improvements in tools and accessibility, the 2025 tax season promises a smoother experience for taxpayers.

However, navigating tax complexities remains challenging, so taxpayers are encouraged to utilize IRS resources and seek professional assistance when needed.

Visit the IRS's Get Ready page for more tips and tools to simplify your filing process.