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When can you file taxes 2023?

5 min read


5 min read


Most taxpayers know that January marks the start of the return filing season, but they’re not sure exactly when. So, what naturally follows is “When can I file my taxes for 2023?”

When is tax season?

If you’re wondering, “When can you file taxes?”, tax season generally falls at the beginning of the calendar year—between January and April. It starts when the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announces you can file and ends with the tax deadline on tax day. This year, April 15, 2024, is tax day, which signifies the deadline for filing a 2023 federal income tax return.

When can you file taxes?

You can file your taxes at any time between when the IRS opens and the annual due date. Some taxpayers may get a jump on taxes and start their tax preparation before the IRS opens, but it’s important to note that you can only truly file them when the IRS is open.

When can I file my taxes for 2023?

Each year, the IRS issues a statement in early January with the first day to file taxes. It’s a good idea to check back in mid-January to know when you can start to file taxes this year– or any other year. For this tax year 2023, you can start to file your taxes on January 29, 2024.

When will the IRS accept 2023 tax returns?

Generally, the IRS will accept 2023 returns as soon as e-file is open. For this year, e-file opens on January 29, 2024. You’ll have until the annual tax filing deadline to file your federal tax return on time. If you need more time, you can file a tax extension, and the IRS will not assess a late filing penalty as long as the return is filed by the extension deadline, which is generally Oct. 15. For 2023 returns the extension deadline is Oct. 15, 2024.

Even if you file an extension, generally at least 90% of the taxes you owe for the year must be paid by the original due date of the return to avoid the failure to pay penalty.

When will I get my tax return?

Technically, you don’t get your tax return… You get forms that help you fill out a tax return. And if you have overpaid, you will get a tax refund from the IRS.

How can I easily file my taxes?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) accepts tax returns filed one of two ways:

  1. Through the mail
  2. Electronically through e-file

Any tax return filed by a tax professional in an H&R Block tax office, using the H&R Block tax software, or through the H&R Block online filing program is usually e-filed. What’s more, certain taxpayers could qualify to free file their taxes with Block!

E-file is the quickest filing method — and typically helps you receive a tax refund faster.

When do I get my tax refund?

Generally, the IRS has said that about 90% of refunds are issued within 21 days of when the return was received.

You can check on the status of your refund on the IRS website or at our Where’s My Refund page. Live updates will appear the same day e-file opens. Using this tool, you can easily track the progress of your return as it is processed.

What could cause a refund delay?

There are many reasons your tax refund could be delayed. We’ve outlined some common instances where a delay could occur if:

  • You file a paper return, the IRS says you should allow about six weeks to receive your refund.
  • The IRS mails you a physical check, you will receive a mailed check.
  • You file Tax Form 8379: Injured Spouse Allocation, it could take up to 14 weeks to process your tax return.
  • Your identity has been stolen and another return was filed with your Social Security number, it could take longer for the IRS to sort out the situation.
  • You owe a debt, like unpaid child support, your refund could be offset to pay part or all of it.

Each of the possibilities above could cause a delay or prevent receiving the refund altogether. It’s important to note that everyone’s tax scenario is unique, and no two filings are handled exactly the same.

How can I make sure I get my refund as fast as possible?

Each tax filing is as unique as the individual it represents. To help expedite the tax refund process, first make sure to complete a tax return free of any errors or miscalculations. This means carefully reviewing personal information such as your name, Social Security number, home address and bank information, if applicable. E-filing versus paper filing can help expedite your tax return, too. Learn about the ways to file with Block.

Can I file taxes before e-file opens?

You can use one of H&R Block’s digital products or come into an H&R Block office before the time that e-file opens to have your return prepared.

H&R Block will hold your prepared return until the IRS begins accepting tax returns.

Help with filing your taxes

Hopefully, we helped you answer, “When can you start filing taxes?” Remember: the first day to file taxes varies from year to year, but generally falls in the same period in January.

Whether you choose to file with a tax pro or file with H&R Block Online, you can rest assured that we’ll get you the biggest refund possible.

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