It’s that time of year again, The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that the 2025 tax season will officially begin on Jan. 27, 2025. Taxpayers must file their 2024 tax returns by April 15, 2025. Over 140 million individual tax returns are expected to be submitted by the deadline, including millions from right here in Texas.
Who Will Receive Up to $1,400?
Around one million taxpayers will soon receive payments of up to $1,400 from the IRS. These payments come as part of ongoing initiatives, with further details available on IRS.gov.
New IRS Features and Programs for Texans
The IRS is introducing several tools and updates to enhance taxpayer experience:
- Virtual Assistant Enhancements: Expanded text and voice query capabilities.
- Mobile Tax Forms: Access dozens of forms on mobile devices with “save and draft” functionality.
- New Features: Scam alerts, electronic notice viewing, Identity Protection PIN requests, and payment management.
- Redesigned Notices: Improved clarity for 284 notices, with more updates planned for 2025.
Direct File Program
Eligible taxpayers in Texas can access the Direct File program, launching Jan. 27, 2025. New features include:
- Eligibility Checks: Enhanced tools and chatbots, with live chat support in English and Spanish.
- Expanded Coverage: Includes additional tax credits like the Child and Dependent Care Credit.
Texans who participated in the 2024 pilot program will benefit from updates such as data import tools.
Free Filing Options
- IRS Free File: Available now on IRS.gov for taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $84,000 or less. One participating provider offers services in Spanish.
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE): Free support for working families, seniors, and individuals with limited English proficiency. Locations are available across Texas.
- MilTax: Complimentary federal and state tax preparation for military members and eligible veterans, including those based in Texas.
Key Filing Tips for Texans
- Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check refund statuses within 24 hours of e-filing.
- File electronically and opt for direct deposit to ensure faster, more secure refunds.
- Transition to electronic Series I savings bonds as paper bond purchases via refunds will end on Jan. 1, 2025.
Professional Tax Preparation Advice
More than half of all taxpayers rely on professionals to file returns. Texans are encouraged to:
- Consult the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers.
- Choose preparers affiliated with national tax organizations or authorized IRS e-file providers.
Improved Customer Service
The IRS aims to sustain an 85% service level and maintain phone wait times under five minutes, building on its success from previous filing seasons. Texans can also access extended hours at Taxpayer Assistance Centers statewide.
For more resources to prepare for the 2025 tax season, visit the IRS Get Ready page on IRS.gov.
 has announced that the 2025 tax season will officially begin on Jan. 27, 2025. Taxpayers must file their 2024 tax returns by April 15, 2025. Over 140 million individual tax returns are expected to be submitted by the deadline, including millions from right here in Texas.){kind=link}