IRS Plans Direct File for 25 States Starting 2025

The 2025 tax filing season is underway, with the IRS expecting over 140 million individual tax returns to be submitted before the April 15 deadline. Despite concerns over workforce reductions at the IRS, tax preparers indicate that the majority of electronically filed returns should not be significantly impacted, as the IRS has streamlined its processes for online submissions. Tax experts recommend filing early to reduce the risk of scams and to ensure timely processing of refunds, which typically takes 21 days for electronic submissions. Taxpayers should be aware of common mistakes that can cause delays, such as mismatched personal information. Additionally, the IRS is offering new services like Direct File to simplify online tax filing for residents in 25 states. Taxpayers are encouraged to utilize tax professionals and the IRS Free File program to navigate the filing process effectively.