Navigating the 2022 Tax Filing Season
Taxpayers eagerly awaiting the commencement of the 2022 tax filing season can mark their calendars for Monday, January 24, 2022. This is when the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will officially begin accepting and processing individual tax returns for the 2021 tax year.
Key Filing Season Dates
- January 14, 2022: IRS Free File opens, allowing taxpayers to begin filing returns through IRS Free File partners.
- January 18, 2022: Due date for the fourth quarter estimated tax payment for tax year 2021.
- January 24, 2022: IRS begins accepting and processing 2021 tax returns.
- January 28, 2022: Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day, highlighting valuable tax credits available to many individuals.
- April 18, 2022: Due date to file 2021 tax returns or request an extension for most taxpayers due to Emancipation Day holiday in Washington, D.C.
- April 19, 2022: Due date to file 2021 tax returns or request an extension for taxpayers residing in Maine or Massachusetts due to Patriots’ Day holiday.
- October 17, 2022: Due date to file for those who have requested an extension on their 2021 tax returns.
Filing Options and Tips
IRS Free File: Taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $73,000 or less in 2021 can utilize the IRS Free File program to prepare and file their taxes electronically for free.
Electronic Filing: Filing taxes electronically is highly recommended as it minimizes errors, expedites refunds, and reduces the likelihood of processing delays.
Direct Deposit: Taxpayers can opt for direct deposit to receive their refunds swiftly and securely.
Advance Child Tax Credit and Stimulus Payments
Taxpayers who received advance Child Tax Credit payments or the third Economic Impact Payment (stimulus payment) in 2021 should be mindful of the following:
- Advance Child Tax Credit: Eligible taxpayers who received advance payments should file a 2021 tax return to claim the remaining half of the credit. Those who did not receive advance payments can claim the full credit by filing a tax return.
- Stimulus Payments: Individuals who did not receive the full amount of their stimulus payments or who are eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit should file a 2021 tax return to claim the remaining amount.
Planning Ahead
To ensure a smooth and timely tax filing experience, taxpayers are advised to:
- Gather all necessary tax documents, including Social Security numbers, Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, and Identity Protection Personal Identification Numbers.
- Review the latest tax information on IRS.gov, including updates on reconciling advance Child Tax Credit payments and claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- Set up or log in securely to IRS.gov/account to access personal tax account information.
- Make final estimated tax payments for 2021 by January 18, 2022, to avoid potential penalties.
- File a complete and accurate return electronically when ready and choose direct deposit for the quickest refund.
By following these guidelines and adhering to the key filing season dates, taxpayers can navigate the 2022 tax filing season efficiently and maximize their tax benefits.
How to File Taxes For the First Time: Beginners Guide from a CPA
FAQ
Can I still file my taxes 2021 in 2022?
How late can I file my 2021 taxes?
Can I file my 2021 taxes now in 2023?
Can I still file my 2021 taxes electronically?
What are the tax deadlines for 2021 & 2022?
People who don’t normally file also could receive other credits. The filing deadline to submit 2021 tax returns or an extension to file and pay tax owed is Monday, April 18, 2022, for most taxpayers. By law, Washington, D.C., holidays impact tax deadlines for everyone in the same way federal holidays do.
How do I file a 2022 tax return?
How do I file a 2022, 2021, or 2020 tax return? To file a new prior-year return, you’ll need to purchase and download that year’s TurboTax software for PC or Mac , as TurboTax Online and the mobile app are only available for the current tax year. (Note: Returns for tax years 2019 and earlier are no longer eligible to be filed through TurboTax.)
Should you prepare your 2022 tax return before the end of the year?
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers to take simple steps before the end of the year to make filing their 2022 federal tax return easier. With a little advance preparation, a preview of tax changes and convenient online tools, taxpayers can approach the upcoming tax season with confidence.
Is the IRS accepting tax returns for 2021?
The IRS is now accepting tax returns for 2021 with a deadline of April 18, 2022. There are some big changes to the free tax-filing tools we’ve previously recommended this year, but you can still file your taxes for free. If your adjusted gross income for 2021 was $73,000 or below, you qualify for the IRS Free File Program.