Tax season comes around every year, and many people wonder when is the best time to file and whether it’s worth getting started right away. The earliest you can file taxes is usually late January, when the IRS begins accepting returns, though the exact date can shift slightly from year to year. Filing early offers several advantages that make the process smoother and less stressful, from getting your refund sooner to better financial planning. Taking action as soon as possible sets you up for a more confident start to the year.
Before you file, make sure you’ve received all required tax documents. This includes forms from employers, financial institutions, and — if applicable — health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Marketplace insurance information is used to complete your return accurately and may affect your tax outcome.
Tax Filing Timeline Table
Here’s a general look at how the IRS tax filing season usually unfolds each year:
| Time of Year | What Typically Happens | Why It Matters |
| Early January | Employers and financial institutions begin sending W-2s, 1099s, and year-end tax forms. | You can start gathering everything you need to prepare your return. |
| Mid-January | Most taxpayers receive all required documents. | This is a good time to review documents for accuracy. |
| Mid-to Late January | The IRS usually announces and opens the official filing season. The government shutdown and changes to the law may delay the start of this season. | This is generally how early you can file and get your tax processing moving forward. |
| April 15 (Tax Day) | This is the deadline to file taxes or request an extension. | Waiting until the last minute can lead to errors and a delay in your refund being processed. |
The IRS website is the best source for the most accurate, up-to-date information on filing dates, refund
timing, and identity protection tools.
5 Benefits of Filing Taxes Early
- Get Your Refund Sooner in the Season
Filing taxes early gets you one step closer to receiving your refund. When you file at the beginning of tax season, your return is submitted earlier in the process, which might help you receive your refund sooner.
An earlier refund gives you more flexibility to pay off holiday debt, plan a winter getaway, or save for a rainy day.
Note: Some refunds may be delayed by law, even if you file early. This includes returns that claim the Earned Income Credit (EIC), Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), or other refundable credits. - Lower Fraud Risk
Filing your tax return early can help lower the risk of someone trying to file using your information. When you file sooner, your legitimate return is already in the system, which makes it harder for a criminal to submit a fake one before you.
Another way the IRS helps protect taxpayers from identity-related fraud is through the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). This six-digit number is assigned by the IRS and helps confirm your identity when you file your return. While early filing and tools like an IP PIN cannot prevent all fraud, they do add extra layers of protection. Anyone with an SSN or an ITIN can get an IP PIN, including individuals living abroad. Learn more about how to obtain the IP PIN to protect yourself from tax-related identity theft.
If you suspect your personal information has been compromised, monitor your financial accounts and review your credit history. Start by learning how to get a copy of your credit report, which can help you spot unusual activity early.
Note: The IRS is also moving away from issuing paper U.S. Treasury checks to reduce the risk of loss or theft. To receive refunds more securely, many taxpayers choose direct deposit or other electronic payment options. - More Time for Planning
Knowing where you stand early in the season may give you greater control over your financial decisions.
Filing ahead of the crowd allows you to adjust your withholdings or increase retirement contributions to lower taxable income for the next year. If you owe money to the IRS, filing early may help you avoid surprises and give you time to set aside funds or compare payment options. Early awareness also supports better budgeting for major expenses throughout the year. - Fewer Errors and Delays
Early filers avoid the last-minute rush, and they’re more likely to catch mistakes before submitting their return. With more time to prepare, you can gather documents, double-check information, and correct issues that might delay your refund. Starting early can improve the chances of your return getting processed quickly and accurately. Common tax-time errors include:- Basic math mistakes
- Forgetting to report additional income
- Not claiming eligible credits
- Overlooking investment losses
- Entering incorrect routing or bank account details
- Better Support for Financial Decisions
One of the benefits of filing taxes early is gaining a clearer picture of your financial health. Early results help you plan savings, manage debt, and prepare for important expenses in the year ahead. This clarity is also helpful when applying for a loan. Lenders may ask to verify income, review last year’s return, or check your expected refund, and having taxes completed early helps streamline the process.
Filing taxes early gives you a clearer view of what you can save, spend, or set aside as you move into the spring. With your return completed, it’s easier to budget for big purchases or prepare for future financial needs without the pressure.
Tax Law Updates To Be Aware of This Year
Tax laws can change from year to year, and even small updates may affect how you file or what
information you need to report. Recent updates may impact:
- Tips and overtime income, which may be reported or treated differently depending on current tax rules
- Enhanced deductions for some seniors, which could affect taxable income and filing considerations
- Interest deductions related to new car loans, which may be available in certain situations
Reviewing these changes ahead of time can help you file with greater confidence and avoid surprises during tax season.
What Happens if You Wait Too Long To File?
Waiting too long to file your taxes can create unnecessary pressure and decrease the time available to fix issues before the deadline. Gather essential documents early, so you’re ready to file as soon as possible. If you’re missing a form, check with the provider to see if a digital copy is available. Starting early keeps the process simple and helps you avoid unexpected problems.
When You’re Ready To File, We’re Here To Help
Filing early can often help you access your refund sooner, reduce worry, and plan with more confidence. As you gather your documents, remember that knowing how early you can file taxes gives you an advantage because it allows you to get started as soon as the IRS opens the filing season. Security Finance is here to support you with trusted tax preparation so you can feel confident from the beginning. Get a head start by downloading our Tax Checklist.
Visit our Security Finance Tax Preparation page or schedule an in-person appointment to learn more about how we can help you get started on your tax prep today.