WASHINGTON — As tax season draws closer, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is urging Americans to take proactive steps now to streamline the process of filing their 2024 federal tax returns. This initiative is part of the IRS’s “Get Ready” campaign, designed to help taxpayers prepare for the upcoming filing season in early 2025.
“Our focus at the IRS continues to be on making tax filing easier and more accessible for everyone,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “We’ve added more digital tools to help taxpayers. But as tax season quickly approaches, the IRS reminds taxpayers there are important steps they can take now to get ready for 2025.”
Key Recommendations from the IRS
To make the 2025 tax season smoother, the IRS recommends the following actions:
1. Utilize the IRS Online Account
Taxpayers are encouraged to create or access their IRS Online Account, which provides comprehensive tax-related information for the filing season. Users can:
- View details from their most recent tax return.
- Request an Identity Protection PIN.
- Obtain account transcripts, including wage and income records.
- Sign tax forms digitally.
- Update language preferences and alternative media options.
- Manage payments and payment plans.
New users will need a photo ID for identity verification.
2. Organize Tax Documents
Maintaining well-organized records can minimize filing errors and help taxpayers identify potential deductions or credits. Essential documents to gather include:
- Forms W-2 (Wage and Tax Statement).
- Other income forms, including those for unemployment compensation, gig economy work, or digital assets.
Taxpayers should also notify the IRS of address changes and update any legal name changes with the Social Security Administration.
3. Review Withholding Before Year-End
The IRS encourages taxpayers to use its Tax Withholding Estimator tool to ensure their withholding aligns with their tax obligations. Adjustments may be needed for individuals who:
- Owed taxes or received large refunds in previous years.
- Experienced major life changes, such as marriage, divorce, or having children.
Changes can be made using Form W-4 through employers, but time is running out to act for the 2024 tax year.
4. Opt for Direct Deposit
Direct deposit remains the fastest and safest method for receiving tax refunds. Taxpayers can direct refunds to their bank account, financial app, or reloadable debit card by providing routing and account numbers.
Without a bank account, individuals can explore options through the FDIC or the National Credit Union Locator tool. Veterans may use the Veterans Benefits Banking Program.
5. Volunteer for Tax Assistance Programs
The IRS and its partners seek volunteers for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. These initiatives provide free tax preparation for eligible taxpayers. More information is available at IRS.gov.
Resources and Guidance
The IRS encourages taxpayers to explore IRS.gov, which provides tools to file, pay, and track taxes, access account information, and find answers to tax-related questions.
Choosing a Tax Professional
For those seeking professional assistance, the IRS advises caution in selecting tax preparers. Taxpayers can use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers to find qualified professionals, such as certified public accountants and Enrolled Agents.
Simplifying Tax Season
With the addition of new digital tools and resources, the IRS aims to make the 2025 tax season more efficient and accessible. By following these steps, taxpayers can avoid common errors, expedite refunds, and reduce stress during filing.
