Welcome to Tax Season
Don’t look now, but somehow, tax day is upon us once again! April 15 is the official due date to file your individual federal tax return. If you’ve never filed before—welcome to adulthood. Your tax return details how much income you earned in the previous year (in this case, 2024), and how much you paid—or still owe—in federal income taxes.
Filing your taxes is something we all do annually, and while some people skip it, that decision can come back to bite them. Not filing can result in penalties, interest, or even missing out on a potential tax refund. Yes, the IRS could owe you money if you overpaid during the year.
Filing Extensions and What to Expect
If you’re not ready to file by April 15, don’t panic—you can request an extension, which gives you until October to get your return in. Just remember, an extension to file is not an extension to pay. If you owe taxes, you’re still expected to pay by April 15 to avoid interest and penalties.
For most people, especially those with a single job, the process is straightforward. You’ll likely receive a W-2 from your employer and possibly other tax forms in the mail. Using this paperwork, you can file using any number of online platforms or services. Just do your research first—some tools aren’t free, and their quality can vary.
Also, keep in mind that you may need to file a state tax return in addition to your federal return. Yes, taxes don’t stop with the IRS—your state wants their share, too.
Tax Tech and Professional Help
This year, we’re seeing a wave of AI-powered or AI-enhanced tax prep platforms hit the market. While they might simplify the process for some, they’re still fairly new and may not work well for everyone, especially if you have a complicated tax situation. Proceed with caution and make sure any platform you choose is reliable.
And of course, you can always turn to a professional. Accountants help millions of people file each year and may be your best bet for maximizing your refund—just know they come with a cost.
Final Thoughts
April 15 is your deadline, so mark it on your calendar and don’t ignore it. Filing your taxes may sound intimidating, but it’s usually easier than you think, especially if your financial situation is simple.
If you have questions or concerns about filing, don’t hesitate to reach out. Stay on top of it, stay prepared, and as always—keep driving.
