New York, April 18, 2023 — Today marks the deadline for filing federal and state income tax returns for 2022. However, this tax season has been smoother compared to the previous three years impacted by the pandemic, according to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel.
Since January, the IRS has improved its response capabilities significantly. The agency has been able to answer 87% of calls from taxpayers, a marked increase from less than 15% last year. Wait times have also decreased from 27 minutes to just 4 minutes.
Taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas may have extended filing deadlines. For example, many taxpayers in California have until October 16 to file and pay taxes. Additionally, service members stationed in combat zones likely have a 180-day extension based on their departure dates.
Individuals who earned little to no income last year may not be required to file but might still want to do so to claim possible refunds. Those eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit may also benefit from IRS Free File services.
Taxpayers are advised to organize their documents before filing and to be aware of various income sources, which may include interest from savings and investment income, as well as any side jobs or benefits received.
If unable to file by the deadline, taxpayers can apply for an automatic six-month extension using Form 4868. However, this extension does not apply to any unpaid taxes, which will incur interest and penalties if not settled by today.
Those who have already filed may expect refunds from the IRS within 21 days. However, due to the expiration of some COVID-19-related tax breaks, average refunds may be lower this year compared to last. The IRS plans to focus auditing efforts on high-income individuals but does not anticipate increased audit rates for most taxpayers.
Source: Reported based on publicly available information from www.cnn.com.
