The 2025 tax filing season brings important updates for taxpayers preparing to file their 2024 tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has outlined a comprehensive schedule for tax return processing, refund distributions, and key payment dates that every taxpayer should be aware of.
IRS Tax Season 2025 Overview
The 2025 tax filing season will officially begin on January 27, 2025. The IRS expects more than 140 million individual tax returns to be filed before the traditional April 15 deadline. Taxpayers should mark their calendars with the following critical dates:
Tax Filing Dates for IRS in 2025
Important Deadlines
- January 27, 2025: First day IRS begins accepting and processing tax returns
- April 15, 2025: Primary tax filing deadline for 2024 tax returns
- October 15, 2025: Extended deadline for filing tax returns (with automatic extension)
Tax Refund Deposit Schedule
The IRS has established a detailed schedule for tax refund deposits, which varies based on when returns are accepted. Here’s a breakdown of direct deposit and paper check dates:
Direct Deposit and Paper Check Timeline
| Accepted Date | Direct Deposit | Paper Check Sent |
|---|---|---|
| 29 Jan – 3 Feb 2025 | 23 Feb 2025 | 3 Mar 2025 |
| 4 Feb – 10 Feb 2025 | 1 Mar 2025 | 8 Mar 2025 |
| 7 Apr – 13 Apr 2025 | 3 May 2025 | 10 May 2025 |
| 14 Apr – 20 Apr 2025 | 10 May 2025 | 17 May 2025 |
Note: Most taxpayers will receive their refunds within 21 days of electronic filing.
Estimated Tax Payment Dates
For self-employed individuals and those with additional income sources, the estimated tax payment schedule for 2025 is as follows:
- April 15, 2025: First estimated tax payment
- June 16, 2025: Second estimated tax payment
- September 15, 2025: Third estimated tax payment
- January 15, 2026: Final estimated tax payment
Refund Amounts and Credits
In 2025, taxpayers may be eligible for:
- Child Tax Credit (CTC): Approximately $1,700
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Around $649
How to File Your Tax Return
Steps to Apply for IRS Tax Refund
- Visit the official IRS website (https://irs.gov)
- Select and complete the appropriate tax form
- Attach all required documentation
- Preview and submit your return
Frequently Asked Questions
The IRS will begin processing returns on January 27, 2025.
Electronic filing with direct deposit is the quickest method.
Late filing penalties can reach up to 5% of the amount due per month, maxing out at 25% annually, with additional daily compounding interest.
Yes, you can file IRS Form 4868 for an automatic extension until October 15, 2025.
Disclaimer: Tax laws and regulations can change. Always consult the official IRS website or a qualified tax professional for the most up-to-date information.
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