The IRS begins accepting 2024 tax returns on January 29, 2025
The IRS will start processing returns filed electronically on January 29, 2025. Paper returns postmarked by April 15, 2025 will also be accepted, though they take longer to process — typically 6 to 8 weeks from receipt. If you file electronically before January 29, your return will be rejected and you'll need to resubmit it after that date.
The filing deadline for all returns is April 15, 2025. This date does not move, even if April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday. If you cannot file by then, you can request a filing extension, which gives you until October 15, 2025 to submit your return — though taxes are still due by April 15 if you owe money.
Key Takeaways
- Electronic filing opens January 29, 2025; returns filed before that date will be rejected and must be resubmitted.
- The final filing deadline is April 15, 2025, for both electronic and paper returns.
- Paper returns take 6 to 8 weeks to process after the IRS receives them, so filing early reduces delays.
- You can request a filing extension to October 15, 2025, but any taxes owed are still due by April 15.
- The IRS processes returns in the order they are received, so filing early may speed up refunds.
Why the IRS starts accepting returns on a specific date
The IRS needs time to update its systems with new tax law changes and forms before it can safely process returns. The January 29 start date gives the agency time to test systems and prepare for the volume of returns it will receive over the next 11 weeks.
Starting on the same date each year also helps tax software companies, employers, and payroll processors prepare their systems. They know when to release updated software and when to expect the IRS to be ready to receive returns.
How to file before January 29 and what happens
If you use tax software or file through a tax preparer, you can prepare your return before January 29. The software will let you save it. However, the software will not let you submit it electronically until January 29 at the earliest.
If you try to e-file before January 29, the IRS will reject your return with an error message. You will then need to resubmit the same return after January 29. This does not cost extra, but it does delay processing. Paper returns can be printed and mailed anytime, but the IRS will not begin processing them until after January 29.
Paper returns versus electronic filing timelines
Electronic returns filed between January 29 and April 15 are usually processed within 21 days if there are no errors or missing information. The IRS then issues refunds by direct deposit or check within that timeframe, though some refunds take longer if the return requires review.
Paper returns take much longer. After you mail a paper return, it must travel to an IRS processing center, be opened, scanned, and entered into the system. This process typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. If you are owed a refund, you will not receive it until after the IRS has processed and reviewed your return.
| Filing Method | Earliest Submission Date | Deadline | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronic (e-file) | January 29, 2025 | April 15, 2025 | 21 days or less |
| Paper (mail) | Anytime | April 15, 2025 (postmarked) | 6 to 8 weeks |
What to do if you need more time to file
If you cannot gather your documents or complete your return by April 15, you can file Form 4868 to request an automatic extension. This form must be filed by April 15, 2025. Filing the extension gives you until October 15, 2025 to submit your actual return.
Important: an extension to file is not an extension to pay. If you owe taxes, they are due by April 15 even if you have an extension. If you cannot pay by April 15, you can set up a payment plan with the IRS, but interest and penalties will accrue on the unpaid balance.
How refunds are issued after filing
Once the IRS processes your return and determines you are owed a refund, it will issue the money by direct deposit or check. Direct deposit is faster — usually 5 to 7 business days after the IRS approves your return. Checks are mailed and can take 2 to 3 weeks to arrive after being issued.
You can check the status of your refund using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov. This tool updates once per day and shows whether your return has been received, is being processed, or has been approved. Do not call the IRS about a refund until at least 21 days have passed since you filed.
Common reasons returns are delayed after filing
The IRS may hold a return for review if it contains math errors, missing information, or inconsistencies with other documents it has received (such as W-2s or 1099s from employers). If this happens, the IRS will mail you a letter explaining what is needed. You will have 30 days to respond.
Returns are also delayed if you claim certain credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. The IRS reviews these returns more carefully to prevent fraud. This is normal and does not mean you did anything wrong — it simply takes longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file my 2024 return before January 29, 2025?
You can prepare your return using tax software or a tax preparer before January 29, but you cannot submit it electronically until that date. Paper returns can be printed and mailed anytime, though the IRS will not process them until after January 29.
What happens if I mail my return on April 14?
As long as your return is postmarked by April 15, 2025, it meets the deadline. However, it will take 6 to 8 weeks to process after the IRS receives it. Filing earlier gives you a faster refund if you are owed one.
Do I have to file by April 15 if I do not owe taxes?
No legal penalty applies if you file late and do not owe taxes. However, if you are owed a refund, filing late delays when you receive it. There is no benefit to waiting.
What if April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday?
The IRS observes federal holidays. If April 15 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the deadline moves to the next business day. In 2025, April 15 is a Tuesday, so the deadline is April 15.
Can I file my return on April 15 at 11:59 p.m.?
Yes. Electronic returns submitted by 11:59 p.m. on April 15 in your time zone meet the deadline. Paper returns must be postmarked by April 15, not received by that date.