Through an official statement, the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reported on the beginning of the 2024 tax season, in which more than 128.7 million people are expected to make their statements.
According to the information shared by the IRS, the start date will be next Monday, January 29, and the deadline to avoid penalties for non-compliance with tax obligations will be April 15.
According to the IRS, a number of significant improvements are in the pipeline for the process this season, including the reopening of Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs). These will offer personalized attention to people who have questions about their taxes.
At the same time, the callback function was increased to reduce waiting times. The objective of these modifications is to facilitate the tax declaration and presentation process for all citizens of the country.
Officials also reported on the Direct File pilot program, which will be implemented in phases in mid-March in certain participating states. The program seeks to further simplify the process for taxpayers in those states.
While the deadline nationwide is April 15, taxpayers in Maine and Massachusetts will be able to file their returns until April 17, due to local holidays.
In the event of an emergency, residents of any federally declared disaster areas will also be given more time to complete the process.
The US Internal Revenue Service assures that a large part of the refunds will be available in less than 21 days, as long as taxpayers have a favorable balance. However, the IRS emphasizes that there are many factors that could change this time period.
And, while most refunds are ready in less than 21 days, some returns may require additional review, which increases waiting time. The easiest way to check this is through the “Where is my refund?” which appears on the IRS.gov page or through the IRS2Go application.
Key dates for the upcoming tax season:
- January 12: IRS Free File will open.
- January 16: Due date for fourth quarter 2023 estimated tax payments.
- January 26: Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day.
- January 29: Start date of the individual tax return filing season.
- April 15: Deadline to file a return.
- April 17: Deadline for citizens in Maine and Massachusetts.
- October 15: Deadline for people who requested an extension.
