Post it with "Tax Season" written on it, on table.

Key deadlines to remember this tax season

Please note: The information below is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or professional advice. Specifics change frequently so consult your local tax professional for advice and clarification.

It is that time of year again, tax season is upon us. Before you start to panic, make sure to take the time to review key dates and deadlines for this tax season. This is important because missing key deadlines can result in unnecessary penalties and fines. 

The following blog outlines all the key deadlines to remember this tax season with an explanation of what they mean.

Don’t forget to read our free tax preparation guide for more tips and information.

Friday, January 13, 2023
IRS Free File Opens 

The IRS Free File is a tax preparation program that allows certain taxpayers who meet the eligibility criteria the ability to access brand-name tax software for free (available only at www.IRS.gov). 

The IRS Free File opens on Friday, January 13, 2023, which means taxpayers can start preparing their tax returns electronically utilizing this software. Most software providers, tax professionals and CPAs will start working on tax returns on this date but will not submit any returns until the official launch of the tax season on January 23rd.

Tuesday, January 17, 2023
Due Date for Fourth Quarter Tax Payment

If you are a business owner or self-employed, you may choose to make tax payments on a quarterly basis to avoid owing a lot of money at tax time. The fourth quarter tax payment for the 2022 tax year is due on January 17th.

Monday, January 23, 2023
Launch of 2022 Tax Season

The 2022 tax season officially begins on January 23rd. This is the date that the IRS begins accepting and processing tax returns. Taxpayers can expect their refund within 21 days from when they file, assuming direct deposit is set up and there are no issues with the tax return.

While there are advantages to filing your taxes early, it is important that you have all tax documents (i.e. from your employer, investments, etc.) prior to filing.

Person holding supporting tax documents
Photo by RODNAE Productions

Tuesday, January 31, 2023
Tax Forms Deadline

Most tax forms need to be prepared and sent to taxpayers by January 31st. This includes tax forms from investments, employers and other sources of income. However, some forms have a longer deadline, such as the 1099-B for capital gains and losses and the 1099-DIV for dividends and distributions.

Wednesday, February 15, 2023
Tax Forms Deadline

While most tax forms need to be sent out by January 31st, the deadline for 1099-B for capital gains and losses and 1099-DIV for dividends and distributions is February 15th.

Tuesday, February 28, 2023
Start of EITC and/or ACTC Refund

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) provide a tax break to low to moderate-income earners, which can help reduce the amount of taxes owed and potentially increase your tax refund. Taxpayers who claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can expect their refund by February 28th. Although the IRS begins processing tax returns and issuing refunds on January 23rd, it cannot start issuing the EITC or ACTC refund until February 28th

This date only applies to taxpayers who file their taxes before February 28th. Anyone who files after February 28th and is eligible for the EITC or ACTC refund will receive their refund on or before the standard 21-day processing time.

Tuesday, April 18, 2023
Deadline to File Taxes

Taxpayers have until Tuesday, April 18th to file their taxes with the IRS. This year, due to the calendar and a holiday, taxpayers get an extra three days to file their taxes. In most years, the tax deadline is April 15th. However, due to the District of Columbia’s Emancipation Day holiday, which falls on Monday, April 17th, the deadline for the 2022 tax season is pushed to April 18th.

Person handing out tax documents
Photo by RODNAE Productions

Tuesday, April 18, 2023
Deadline to Request an Extension

Tuesday, April 18th is also the deadline to request an extension to file your tax return. It is important to know that just because you file a request for an extension does not guarantee it will be granted. This should only be done in extreme circumstances.

Tuesday, April 19, 2023
Deadline to File Taxes (Maine or Massachusetts)

Taxpayers who reside in Maine or Massachusetts have until Tuesday, April 19th to file their 2022 tax return. 

Thursday, June 15, 2023
Deadline to File Taxes for U.S. Citizens/Residents Abroad

U.S. Citizens, residents, green card holders and other U.S. tax residents residing outside of the United States get an automatic two-month extension to file their taxes. Ensure that you meet the criteria for this extension and include the appropriate statement on your tax return.

Monday, October 16, 2023
Extended Deadline

Taxpayers who requested and were granted an extension to file their taxes have until Monday, October 16th to file their tax return. 

Start preparing your 2022 tax return to ensure that you don’t miss any of these key deadlines! 

Late on your 2022 taxes? Read our article, “I’ve Procrastinated On Getting Ready For Tax Season. What Do I Do Now?”

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