IRS Launches Tax Season with New Filing Tools and Refund Tracking Options

The IRS has begun accepting tax returns, offering services like Direct File and 'Where’s My Refund?' to streamline the process.

Tax season officially started on January 27, 2025, with the IRS expecting over 140 million returns by the April 15 deadline.
The IRS introduced its expanded Direct File program, now available in 25 states, allowing eligible taxpayers to file federal returns for free online.
The 'Where’s My Refund?' tool and IRS2Go app enable taxpayers to track refund statuses, updated daily, with most e-file refunds issued within 21 days.
Refund delays may occur for those claiming credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, with refunds expected by early March.
Free filing resources, including IRS Free File, VITA, and Tax Counseling for the Elderly, are available for eligible taxpayers to assist with preparation and filing.