When Can You File Your Taxes? Start Date, How Tax Season Works

Tax season is a three-month period, typically from late January to mid-April, when people prepare their tax documents and report their income for the prior year to the IRS. This is also the time when people will settle their bill if they owe taxes or receive notice that a refund is coming their way if they overpaid.

Returns that are filed after tax season ends are generally considered late, which could result in penalties and fees if taxes are owed. Filers who get a timely extension have until October to file, but their tax bill is still due in April.

States set their own tax deadlines, which may or may not mirror the federal dates. Your state tax department’s website is often the best resource for up-to-date filing information.

» MORE: See NerdWallet’s picks for the best tax software

The IRS announced the official start date of tax season as Jan. 27, 2025. This is when the agency began processing tax returns. For most people, the last day to file their taxes was April 15.

The tax deadline typically stays the same year-to-year unless it falls on a weekend, in which case it’s pushed to the following business day. Some states may get federal extensions to file and pay if residents are affected by a natural disaster. There are also certain exceptions, such as in 2020 and 2021, when the tax deadline was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

» MORE: 7 ways to file your taxes for free

Although the IRS doesn’t begin processing returns until the tax season officially starts, taxpayers can typically begin preparing their returns ahead of time. According to the agency, most tax software and many tax pros will hold onto a completed return and submit it to the IRS when tax season officially begins.

While it can be tempting to get ahead of the crowd, you’ll want to make sure you have all your documents in order before starting the filing process. Some documents you’ll need to file aren’t required to be sent out until after tax season has begun. For instance, a key form many filers need to reference is the W-2, which employers have until Jan. 31 to send out.

» Is your W-2 late? Take these steps

When you should submit your tax return depends on your objective. Here are a few timelines to consider:

To get the lowest price: If you want to file as cheaply as possible, you'll want to do so before March. The market for tax software is competitive, and providers often change their prices throughout the year. Prices typically go up the closer we get to the April deadline, and this surge pricing doesn't only apply to federal returns. Fees to file state returns may rise when demand peaks as well. If you’re going to hire a human tax preparer, get on that person’s calendar early, too.

To avoid penalties: If your objective is to avoid late fees, you'll want to get your return in by Tax Day. If you miss the April deadline, the IRS could hit you with a late-filing penalty of 5% of your bill, up to a maximum of 25% of your taxes owed. And remember that if you need an extension, you must request one by the tax deadline.

To fend off criminals: Tax identity theft is still a big problem. It generally starts by accessing someone’s personal information, then filing a fake tax return under their name to pocket their tax refund. By filing as soon as you have your paperwork together, you'll limit the chances of your refund being at risk. This could mean filing your return in February or earlier.

To get your refund quickly: If you want your refund as soon as possible, avoid mailing a paper return. Refunds from paper returns can take up to six months to process, whereas refunds from e-filed returns are typically issued within 21 days. You may also opt for direct deposit instead of requesting a check in the mail, so the money goes right into your bank account instead of through the postal service.

Look into tax credits

Before tax season begins, it’s wise to figure out which tax credits or deductions you might be eligible for. Certain popular tax credits are adjusted for inflation each year, so it’s possible to qualify for ones you previously didn’t qualify for. Good tax software should be able to determine which credits and deductions you qualify for through interview-style questions.

» Ready to get started? Check out our step-by-step tax filing guide

Gather important information

There are a few things you’ll want to have on hand in January to make your filing process as smooth as possible. These include:

• Income documents, such as a W-2 or 1099 form.

• A Social Security number or tax ID.

• Bank account numbers.