2025 Tax Season: When Does It Start and Key Filing Deadlines

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Learn about the start of the 2025 IRS tax season, key deadlines, extensions, and more

When Does Tax Season Start in 2025?

The beginning of tax season is a crucial time for many taxpayers, and the 2025 tax season is no different. Taxpayers across the United States eagerly await the official start date for filing their tax returns. For 2025, the IRS will start accepting returns on January 27, 2025, while the IRS Free File system will open a bit earlier on January 10, 2025.

Filing early can offer advantages, such as quicker processing times for refunds and the ability to avoid the rush that typically happens closer to the April deadline. For many individuals, getting the return processed early means receiving a refund sooner.

Key Dates for the 2025 Tax Season

Tax Filing Deadline – April 15, 2025

The tax deadline for 2025 falls on April 15, which is traditionally the day taxpayers must submit their returns. If April 15 happens to fall on a weekend or holiday, the deadline will be moved to the next business day, but in 2025, the date falls on a Tuesday. This date is important because it’s when your taxes must be filed to avoid penalties for late submission.

Extension Deadline – October 15, 2025

Taxpayers who need more time to file can apply for an extension. The deadline to request an extension is also April 15, 2025, which grants an additional six months to file your return, moving the filing date to October 15, 2025. However, it’s critical to remember that an extension only provides more time to file, not to pay. Taxes owed must be paid by April 15 to avoid additional penalties or interest.

How to File for a Tax Extension

Filing for an extension is simple and can be done through the IRS online system or by mailing a paper Form 4868. This process is free and requires only basic personal information, including your name, address, Social Security number, and any tax owed. However, while an extension gives you extra time to file, it does not extend the due date for payment. If you owe taxes, the payment must be made by the April 15 deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

Natural Disaster Extensions

In cases of natural disasters, the IRS automatically grants extensions to affected taxpayers. If you live in a disaster area, check IRS notices or announcements for specific details regarding these extensions.

Penalties for Missing the Tax Deadline

Failing to file your taxes on time can result in severe penalties. If you don’t file by the April 15 deadline, you may face a penalty of 5% per month on the taxes owed, up to a maximum of 25%. The IRS also charges a smaller penalty of 0.5% per month if you file but fail to pay the taxes owed, or if you request an extension but miss the payment deadline.

For those who may forget or procrastinate, setting up reminders for important deadlines can help ensure that taxes are filed and paid on time. You can also opt to set up payment plans with the IRS to help manage any payments owed.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Your Tax Refund?

Once you file your taxes, most refunds are processed within 21 calendar days if you file electronically. However, if you submit a paper return, expect delays—paper returns can take up to four weeks or longer to process. To track your refund status, the IRS offers the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, which is updated every night and allows you to track your refund within 24 hours of e-filing.

What Happens if You Miss the Tax Filing Deadline?

If you miss the tax filing deadline, the IRS will typically impose a penalty. As mentioned earlier, the standard penalty is 5% of your unpaid taxes for each month that your return is late, up to 25% of the tax due. The penalty is applied for each month the tax return is not filed, so it’s essential to file as soon as possible to minimize penalties.

If you file an extension but still fail to pay your owed taxes, you’ll be subject to a penalty of 0.5% per month on any unpaid taxes. This penalty can quickly add up, making it important to file as early as possible and pay your taxes by the deadline.

How to Maximize Your Tax Refund

Filing your taxes early offers more than just avoiding penalties—it can also help you maximize your refund. By filing early, you allow more time to address any potential errors, claim eligible deductions, and ensure that your return is accurate.

Additionally, consider reviewing any credits or deductions you may be eligible for. Tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC) can significantly increase your refund. Be sure to check your eligibility for these credits to make sure you’re getting the maximum refund possible.

How Many People File Taxes Each Year?

In 2024, the IRS received over 163 million tax returns, a 0.9% increase compared to the previous year. The IRS expects approximately 140 million individual returns to be filed for the 2024 tax year by the April 15, 2025 deadline. This surge of filings underscores the importance of planning ahead and filing early to avoid the stress and potential delays that occur closer to the filing deadline.

Tax Refund Timeline and Common Issues

After filing, most taxpayers expect their refunds within 21 days if they e-file. For paper returns, this timeline can stretch to four weeks or more. However, it’s important to keep in mind that if there are errors in your filing or additional paperwork is needed, it could delay your refund even further.

If your refund is delayed, using the IRS Where’s My Refund? tool is the quickest way to check your refund status.

Summary: Tax season for the 2025 tax year will officially start on January 27, 2025, with January 10, 2025, marking the opening of the IRS Free File system. Key filing deadlines include April 15, 2025, for returns and October 15, 2025, for extension filings. Understanding penalties for missed deadlines, tracking refunds, and applying for extensions can help you navigate the process with ease.

Q&A:

  1. When does tax season start for 2025?

    • Tax season officially begins on January 27, 2025, and IRS Free File starts on January 10, 2025.

  2. What is the tax filing deadline for 2025?

    • The 2025 tax deadline is April 15, 2025, unless extended due to holidays or weekends.

  3. How can I apply for a tax extension?

    • You can apply for an extension by filing Form 4868 with the IRS, which grants an extension until October 15, 2025.

  4. What happens if I miss the April 15 tax deadline?

    • If you miss the April 15 deadline, you will incur penalties, starting at 5% per month of the unpaid taxes.

  5. How long does it take to get a tax refund in 2025?

    • Most refunds are issued within 21 days for e-filed returns, but paper returns may take longer.

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