The Shadow
WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service has opened the 2020 tax filing season. The agency is accepting and processing federal tax returns for tax year 2019.
The deadline to file a 2019 tax return and pay any tax owed is Wednesday, April 15, 2020.
More than 150 million individual tax returns for the 2019 tax year are expected to be filed, with the vast majority of those coming before the April 15 tax deadline.
“The IRS workforce has worked for nearly a year to prepare for the opening of tax season,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “Our dedicated employees are committed to help taxpayers, process tax returns and serve the nation — not just through the April 15 tax deadline but throughout the year.”
While the IRS’ Free File program as well as many tax software companies and tax professionals began accepting tax returns in early Janiary, the IRS?began processing those tax returns when its systems opened Jan. 27.
The IRS expects about 90 percent of individuals to file their returns electronically. Filing electronically and choosing direct deposit remains the fastest and safest way to file an accurate income tax return and receive a refund.
“The IRS reminds taxpayers there are many options to get help,” Rettig said. “Our website has around the clock information available and is the fastest way to get assistance. We’ve made improvements to the Free File program and filing electronically with direct deposit remains the best way to speed refunds and minimize errors. As always, experts in the nation’s tax professional community stand ready to help people navigate their tax issues. And we also remind people our IRS-trained community volunteers are ready to help file tax returns in locations across the country.”
