As tax season begins, staying informed can help you avoid costly mistakes and take full advantage of updated rules and programs. Whether you're a first-time filer or a seasoned taxpayer, here are the most important updates to be aware of for the 2025 tax year.
As tax season begins, staying informed can help you avoid costly mistakes and take full advantage of updated rules and programs. Whether you're a first-time filer or a seasoned taxpayer, here are the most important updates to be aware of for the 2025 tax year.
If you live in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, or South Carolina, you’ve got extra time to file your taxes this year. Due to disaster declarations in these states, the IRS has extended the federal tax filing and payment deadline to May 1, 2025.
Why it matters: This extension gives residents more time to gather necessary documents, consult with tax professionals, and file accurately. Early filing is still recommended to help prevent identity theft and ensure quicker refunds.
In an effort to make tax filing simpler and more accessible, the IRS has broadened its free filing options for 2025:
Why it matters: IRS Free File partners with private companies and may vary in experience and upsells, while Direct File is a simple, consistent IRS-run platform for filing federal taxes directly. Take advantage of these options if they apply to your situation.
Each year, the IRS adjusts certain tax thresholds to keep pace with inflation. For 2025, here’s what’s changed:
Why it matters: These changes can impact how much tax you owe or how much of your income is shielded from taxation. Higher standard deductions can lead to lower taxable income, especially for middle-income earners.
More than 1.1 million taxpayers still haven’t filed returns for tax year 2021—and the IRS estimates over $1 billion in refunds are waiting to be claimed. Many of these refunds relate to unclaimed COVID-era stimulus payments and credits.
Why it matters: After April 15, the funds become property of the U.S. Treasury. If you skipped filing during the pandemic or were unaware of your eligibility for a refund or stimulus credit, it’s not too late—but time is running out.
There have been reports of proposed job cuts at the IRS, raising questions about enforcement. However, this does not mean you can ignore your tax responsibilities. The IRS continues to process returns, enforce compliance, and issue penalties for late or missing filings.
Why it matters: Don’t be misled by headlines. Filing your taxes remains mandatory, and the IRS is still very much operational. Always file on time and keep your records in order to avoid unnecessary penalties or audits.
Tax season 2025 brings expanded free filing options, generous inflation-adjusted deductions, and crucial deadlines you don’t want to miss. Staying up-to-date ensures you can file with confidence and possibly receive a larger refund.
Need expert help? At Root Financial, we believe everyone deserves a best-in-class experience with a tax accountant—maximizing your refund in the least amount of time. Let our licensed professionals make your tax season stress-free.