IRS provides tools for 2025 tax season
As the IRS continues its transformation work, the agency is adding new online tools, expanding and updating digital tools
WASHINGTON — As the nation’s tax season approaches, the Internal Revenue Service ( IRS ) is reminding people of the simple steps they can take now to prepare to file their 2024 federal tax returns.
This reminder is part of the IRS's "Get Ready" campaign to help everyone prepare for the upcoming tax filing season in early 2025.
“Our focus at the IRS continues to be on making tax filing easier and more accessible for everyone,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel.
"We've added more digital tools to help taxpayers. But as tax season quickly approaches, the IRS reminds taxpayers that there are important steps they can take now to prepare for 2025. From reviewing tax withholding to signing up for an IRS online account, there are multiple ways people can help make the 2025 tax filing season easier.”
As the IRS continues its historic transformation work, the agency continues to add new online tools , as well as expand and update other digital tools designed to assist taxpayers and make filing easier.
Access the IRS online account for useful information
Taxpayers can create or access their IRS Online Account , where they can find all of their tax-related information for the 2025 filing season. New users will need to have a photo ID ready to verify their identity. Through their IRS Online Account, taxpayers can:
View key details from your most recent tax return, such as adjusted gross income.
- Request an Identity Protection PIN.
- Obtain account transcripts that include wage and income records.
- Sign tax forms such as powers of attorney or tax information authorizations.
- View and edit language preferences and alternative media (such as braille, large print, etc.).
- Receive and view over 200 IRS e-notices.
- View, make and cancel payments.
- Set up or change payment plans and check your balance.
Having well-organized tax documents can make it easier to file a complete and accurate return and help avoid errors that can delay refunds. This can also help identify deductions or credits that may have been overlooked.
Most income is taxable, including unemployment compensation , interest received on a refund , and income from the sharing economy and digital assets . Taxpayers should be vigilant and gather essential forms, such as Forms W-2, Wage and Tax Withholding Statement , Forms 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous Information , and any other income documents.
Accepting money electronically to sell goods or provide a service can trigger a Form 1099-K, Payment Cards and Third-Party Network Transactions . Taxpayers must report all income on their tax return. That's true whether they receive the money electronically or not, even if they don't receive a Form 1099-K.
It is also important to notify the IRS of a change of address and the Social Security Administration office of any legal changes to your name.
Review tax withholding before the end of 2024
The Tax Withholding Estimator is a tool on IRS.gov that helps taxpayers determine the correct amount of tax to withhold from their paychecks. This tool is especially helpful for people who owed taxes or received large refunds last year, or for those who have experienced life changes .such as marriage, divorce , or welcoming a child. Taxpayers who need to adjust their withholding can update their information with their employer through Form W-4 (SP), Employee's Withholding Certificate .
Time is running out to make changes for 2024, as there are only a few pay periods left in the year. Taxpayers need to act quickly to make any adjustments.
Get refunds faster with direct deposit
The fastest and safest way to receive a tax refund is through direct deposit . Taxpayers can direct their refund to a bank account, banking app, or reloadable debit card by providing their routing and account numbers. If the routing and account numbers cannot be located, taxpayers should contact their bank, financial institution, or app provider.
According to the Treasury Bureau of the Fiscal Service, paper refund checks are 16 times more likely to be lost, diverted, stolen or uncashed compared to those paid by direct deposit.
People without a bank account can explore options for opening one through FDIC-insured banks or a credit union by using the Credit Union Locator Tool . Veterans can use the Veterans Benefits Banking Program to find participating financial institutions.
Read Also: IRS Tax Refund Calendar 2025: When is it your turn?
Become a volunteer to help taxpayers file their taxes
The IRS and its community partners are seeking volunteers nationwide to join the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs . These programs offer free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. Interested individuals can learn more and sign up at IRS.gov/volunteers .
Helpful IRS Resources and Online Tools
IRS.gov is a valuable resource for taxpayers, offering a variety of online tools such as the Individual Online Account available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These tools help people file and pay taxes, track refunds, access account information, and get answers to tax questions. Taxpayers are encouraged to bookmark these resources for easy access.
Choosing a tax professional
Tax professionals play an essential role in the U.S. tax system. Certified public accountants, enrolled agents, attorneys, and others without formal credentials are just some of the professionals who help taxpayers file their returns accurately. It is important to choose a tax professional who is both skilled and trustworthy.
Most tax preparers provide excellent service, but choosing the wrong one can hurt taxpayers financially. The IRS offers tips for choosing a tax preparer .
Individuals can use the Directory of Credentialed Federal Tax Return Preparers with Certain Qualifications to find qualified professionals.
Check Also: Stimulus Checks: Who will receive IRS payment in February 2025?
