Even in a normal economic environment, early tax filers usually try to file their taxes once they get their final pay stub of the year. However, Americans cannot legally file their tax returns for the prior year until January 1st, meaning you cannot file your taxes for 2020 until January 1, 2021.

Can I send my taxes in early?

You can prepare and submit your return as soon as you receive your W-2s from your employers and have all the relevant information and documents. Most W-2s arrive in mid-January, but employers have until January 31, 2020 to send W-2s and Forms 1099, so you could receive yours as late as early February.

Can I submit my taxes now?

There is no penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic filing options including IRS Free File available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically. If a taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order it was received.

Do you have to mail your tax return before tax day?

The postmark is what counts when mailing your business return. Some post office locations offer extended hours and late postmarking before Tax Day. 7  The IRS encourages taxpayers to use Free File for Forms 1040 or 1040-SR if they qualify.

Do you have to file your state taxes first?

If you’re filing your federal and state returns using an online program, you’ll need to file your federal return first. If your federal e-file is pending, you should wait until the IRS accepts your federal return before you e-file your state return.

When does the IRS start accepting tax returns?

Usually, the IRS begins accepting tax returns on or about Jan 15. The IRS gives this recommendation. You should file your taxes early so you can avoid delays when waiting for your tax refund.

When is the first day of tax filing season?

According to the IRS, tax filing season will open on Feb. 12, 2021. This is the first date the agency will begin accepting and processing returns for 2020. This date may come as a surprise to you if you’ve always filed your returns right away. See, the IRS usually opens up filing season somewhere during the end of January.