As soon as January rolls around, millions of Americans wonder when they will be able to file their tax returns. In a normal year, the IRS can accept tax returns in early- to mid-January. Most people just simply wait until they receive their W-2 or 1099 and file immediately, especially when they anticipate a refund. But this year there is a catch.
2010 Tax Return Delay: Some Can't File Taxes Until February 2011
Recently passed new tax laws (passed in December 2010) have forced the IRS to change many tax forms and update its software systems. Therefore, some people can’t file tax returns until sometime in February 2011.
The IRS has made press announcements regarding the February 2011 tax filing delay at least twice already. Unfortunately, the IRS still hasn’t said exactly when it will be ready to receive all tax returns. So we just have to wait.
Who’s Affected by the 2010 Tax Return Delay? Forms Dictate When You Can File 2010 Taxes
The Suite101 article 2010 Tax Return Delays lists the affected forms. Take a look at that list to see if any forms you file are affected; if so, then that means you must wait. Everyone else should be able to file on time as usual. A qualified tax preparer should be able to verify that for you.
IRS Income Tax Refund Delays Due to New Tax Laws – Will Filing Taxes in February Affect Your Tax Refund?
In a nutshell, YES. The IRS processes income tax refunds on a regular basis throughout tax season, but it cannot process yours until it receives your return. If you are required to file later than usual due to tax return delays, remember that requesting direct deposit will be the quickest way to receive any money back. Typically, you can receive the direct deposit weeks before you would receive an actual check.
What is the Earliest Date to File Taxes? February 2011 Tax Filing Delay Doesn’t Apply to Everyone
So just how early can you file taxes this year? According to TurboTax, the IRS will begin accepting tax returns on January 14th. Other sources list the earliest date as January 11th. Sounds like you would be wise to wait until the third week in January just to be safe.
So what happens if you file too early online, if the IRS is not ready to accept your return? If you use an internet-based tax software provider like TurboTax or H&R Block, the company will simply hold your return until it knows the IRS will accept your return. Using such a service is probably the best way for an individual to confidently file at the right time. Otherwise, stay tuned to the IRS website, irs.gov, for more information and tax season updates.
