Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support!
When to Start Filing Your 2021 Federal Tax Returns
According to the IRS, it will begin accepting federal tax returns for 2021 on Monday, January 24th. The deadline for filing federal tax returns this year is April 18th. It is the deadline for filing your 2021 income tax return and paying any owing federal income taxes.
On April 15th, Washington, DC observes Emancipation Day, which is normally the deadline for tax filing. Because of Patriots Day on April 18th, the federal filing deadline for Massachusetts and Maine will be April 19th.
Anyone who files for an automatic 6-month extension will be granted a six-month extension of the federal filing deadline. (Note: You will only get an extension in filing your return. You will not be given an extension in paying whatever debt you still owe.)
In addition, those who live in counties declared disaster areas by the federal government will have their tax filing and payment deadlines extended.
Some cases involve tornadoes and storms that hit Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee, as well as wildfires in Colorado. Their deadline for filing tax returns and making payments is May 16, 2022. On this IRS page, you can find detailed information about who may receive disaster-related tax extensions.
Contributions to an IRA for 2021 can also be made by affected taxpayers until May 16. The deadline for everyone else is April 18.
Don’t be Surprised if There Are Delays on Your Tax Returns
IRS tax season is always busy, but due to pandemic-induced backlogs from the past two years and limited funding, it will be even busier than usual.
According to Treasury officials, the IRS normally has 1 million tax returns backlogged at the start of tax season, but this year the backlog is “many times greater.”
As the IRS administered a number of Covid-19 relief provisions passed by Congress, the IRS experienced delays. Those take place in processing returns and providing tax assistance. As part of those efforts, three rounds of Economic Impact Payments were made, a system of advancing Child Tax Credit payments was implemented. Also, the Earned Income Tax Credit was amended.
“Despite the tireless efforts of our employees dealing with a large portfolio and new responsibilities, we are still processing tax returns filed in 2021. We cannot address the unprecedented number of phone calls. The IRS has a great deal of trouble providing the service and enforcement that our taxpayers and tax system deserve and need,” Rettig said.
One example: More than 2/3 of the calls the agency received last year were not answered. In order to get answers to their tax questions, taxpayers should first use IRS.gov’s online tools. Get them answered online before calling the agency directly.
How to Ensure You Get Your Refund As Quickly As Possible
Refunds are typically due to the majority of tax filers.
According to Treasury officials, your IRS refund will be delivered within 21 days of receipt of your tax return. However, your return must be filled out accurately and completely, filed electronically, and you must elect to receive your refund by direct deposit.
The IRS is not allowed by law to issue refunds related to the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit before mid-February. This will allow the agency time to inspect for any fraudulent refunds.
However, affected filers may still file their returns beginning January 24th. However, Rettig stated that the agency is looking for ways to improve despite the anticipated frustrations. In addition to offering the most to our employees and taxpayers, we also want to protect their health and safety.”
