When Does Tax Season Start in the United States?

## Understanding Tax Season in the United States Tax season in the United States is a critical period when individuals and businesses prepare and file their income tax returns for the previous year. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) typically begins accepting and processing tax returns in late January. For the 2024 tax season, the IRS will start accepting 2023 tax year returns on **January 29, 2024**. ### Key Deadlines and Important Dates - **January 31**: Deadline for employers to send W-2 forms and businesses to distribute 1099 forms - **April 15, 2024**: Regular filing deadline (for most states) - **October 15, 2024**: Extended filing deadline (if extension is requested) **Estimated Tax Payment Deadlines**: - Q4 2023: January 16, 2024 - Q1 2024: April 15, 2024 - Q2 2024: June 17, 2024 - Q3 2024: September 16, 2024 ### Preparing for Tax Season To ensure a smooth filing process, gather these essential documents: 1. W-2 forms from employers 2. 1099 forms for independent contractors 3. Investment income statements 4. Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098) 5. Charitable donation receipts 6. Educational expense documents 7. Medical expense receipts ### Filing Methods #### Electronic Filing (E-file) The IRS strongly encourages electronic filing through: - [IRS Free File](https://www.irs.gov/filing/irs-free-file-do-your-taxes-for-free) (for those with income below $73,000) - Commercial tax preparation software like [TurboTax](https://turbotax.intuit.com/) or [H&R Block](https://www.hrblock.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqrs1Hflj2XtFUJRspNDvLLUpdqUt2PrSseItNgsl1lPuK3HB8j) - Professional tax preparers - [IRS Direct File](https://www.irs.gov/filing/irs-free-file-do-your-taxes-for-free) (pilot program for 2024) #### Paper Filing While still available, paper filing typically results in: * Longer processing times * Higher error rates * Delayed refunds ### Getting Help If you need assistance with your taxes, consider: - Consulting a certified public accountant (CPA) - Using the [Taxpayer Advocate Service](https://www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/) - Visiting a local [IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center](https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-your-local-irs-office) - Using [VITA/TCE programs](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers) for free tax preparation assistance > Note: While federal tax season dates are uniform across the country, state filing deadlines may vary. Check with your state's tax agency for specific dates and requirements. ### Common Questions **What if I miss the deadline?** If you miss the April deadline, you can file for an extension until October 15. However, an extension to file is not an extension to pay any taxes owed. Estimate and pay any taxes by the April deadline to avoid penalties and interest. **Can I file my taxes early?** Yes, you can prepare your return as soon as you have all necessary documents and submit it when the IRS begins accepting returns. --- Remember that early preparation often leads to a smoother filing process and faster refunds. Stay informed about any changes in tax laws by regularly checking the [IRS website](https://www.irs.gov/) or consulting with a tax professional.

When Does Tax Season Start in the United States?

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