Unlock Stress-Free Tax Season: IRS Launches ‘Get Ready’ Campaign!
As tax season rolls around once again, the IRS is stepping up to arm taxpayers with a treasure trove of simple strategies to gear up for filing their 2024 federal tax returns. Whether you’re a seasoned filer or a newbie, now is the perfect time to get your ducks in a row!
Enter the IRS’s “Get Ready” campaign, designed to help you tackle the upcoming filing season with confidence in early 2025. Don’t let tax season stress you out—take proactive steps now!
“At the IRS, we’re committed to making your tax filing experience smoother and more accessible than ever,” stated IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “We’ve rolled out innovative digital tools to assist taxpayers, but with tax season just around the corner, it’s crucial for you to act now. From fine-tuning withholdings to setting up your own IRS Online Account, there’s a plethora of ways to simplify your 2025 filing journey.”
In its ongoing transformation, the IRS is constantly introducing cutting-edge online tools and enhancing existing digital resources to empower taxpayers and streamline the filing process. Don’t miss out on these game-changing tools!
Unlock Your IRS Online Account for Essential Info
Ready to take control of your taxes? Create or access your IRS Online Account today! This handy portal houses all your tax-related data for the 2025 season. New users will need a photo ID for identity verification. Once logged in, you can:
- Check key details from your latest tax return, including adjusted gross income.
- Request an Identity Protection PIN for added security.
- Obtain account transcripts, including wage and income records.
- Sign important tax documents like powers of attorney or tax information authorizations.
- Customize your language preferences and access alternative media options (like braille and large print).
- Receive over 200 IRS electronic notices right to your account.
- Manage payments with ease—view, make, or cancel them anytime.
- Set up or modify payment plans and check your current balance.
Organize Your Tax Documents Like a Pro
Getting your tax records organized can make filing a breeze, ensuring you submit a complete and accurate return while speeding up your refund. Plus, it helps you uncover any deductions or credits you might have missed!
Remember, most income is taxable—this includes unemployment compensation, refund interest, gig economy earnings, and even digital assets. So keep an eye out for essential forms like Forms W-2 and other income documents.
And don’t forget to update the IRS with any address changes, and notify the Social Security Administration of any name changes.
Double-Check Your Withholding Before Year-End
Make sure you’re withholding the right amount of taxes from your paycheck with the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator. This tool is a lifesaver for anyone who owed taxes or received a hefty refund last year, or for those who’ve experienced significant life changes like marriage or having a child. If you need to adjust your withholding, simply update your info with your employer using Form W-4.
Time is of the essence! Only a few pay periods remain in the year, so don’t delay in making any necessary adjustments.
Unlock Faster Refunds with Direct Deposit
Want to get your tax refund in record time? Opt for direct deposit! This method is not only the quickest but also the safest way to receive your money. You can direct your refund to a bank account, banking app, or even a reloadable debit card—just provide your routing and account numbers. If you can’t find those numbers, reach out to your bank or financial institution.
Keep this in mind: According to the Treasury’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service, paper checks are 16 times more likely to get lost, misdirected, stolen, or left uncashed compared to direct deposit refunds.
If you don’t have a bank account, explore options with FDIC-insured banks or a credit union via the National Credit Union Locator tool. Veterans can find participating financial institutions through the Veterans Benefits Banking Program.
Give Back by Helping Others with Their Taxes
The IRS and its community partners are on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers to join the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. These fantastic initiatives provide free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers. If you’re interested in making a difference, learn more and sign up at IRS.gov.
Visit IRS.gov for a goldmine of taxpayer resources, featuring a variety of online tools, including the Individual Online Account—available 24/7. These user-friendly tools help you file and pay taxes, track refunds, access account information, and get answers to your burning tax questions. Don’t forget to bookmark these invaluable resources for easy access!
Select the Right Tax Professional for Your Needs
Tax professionals serve as your trusted allies in navigating the complex U.S. tax system. Whether it’s certified public accountants, Enrolled Agents, or attorneys, having a skilled professional by your side is crucial for filing accurately. It’s vital to choose wisely and pick someone trustworthy.
While most tax return professionals deliver stellar service, choosing the wrong one could have financial repercussions. The IRS provides tips for finding the right tax preparer to ensure your needs are met.
To make your search easier, use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications to locate qualified professionals near you.
