Can You File Your Taxes Early? What to Know

Taxpayers often wonder if they can submit tax returns before the official tax season. While the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not begin processing returns until a specific date each year, individuals can prepare their tax documents in advance. This preparation allows for careful organization of financial information and streamlines the filing process once IRS systems are ready. Understanding the distinction between preparing and submitting a return is key to navigating the tax period effectively.

When the IRS Begins Processing

Individuals can complete tax returns at any point after the close of the tax year. However, the IRS only opens its systems to process returns on a designated date each year. This official start date allows the IRS to finalize forms, update processing systems, and gives tax software providers time to incorporate new tax law changes. Tax preparation software and professionals enable taxpayers to complete returns before this date, holding the information until the IRS e-file system becomes operational.

This waiting period ensures all necessary updates are in place for accurate and efficient processing. For instance, if a tax law change occurs late in the year, the IRS needs time to adjust forms and guidance. Filing before systems are fully updated could lead to errors, requiring amendments later. Therefore, while preparation can happen early, actual submission for processing must align with the IRS’s announced start date.

Required Documents and Information

Accurately completing a tax return, especially if preparing early, depends on having all necessary financial documents. Taxpayers need their Social Security numbers and dates of birth for themselves and anyone else listed on the return. For identity verification during e-filing, the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from the previous year’s tax return is needed.

Income statements include:
Form W-2 for wages from an employer.
Form 1099-NEC for non-employee compensation (e.g., freelancing) if payments totaled $600 or more.
Form 1099-INT for interest income of $10 or more.
Form 1099-DIV for dividends.
Form 1099-R for distributions from retirement plans.
Form 1099-K for payments received through third-party networks (e.g., PayPal, Venmo) for goods or services, if transactions exceed certain thresholds.

Beyond income, documentation for deductions and credits can reduce tax obligations. This includes Form 1098 for mortgage interest paid, and other forms for student loan interest or tuition expenses. Records of charitable contributions, medical expenses, and child care expenses, along with the provider’s taxpayer identification number, are necessary if itemizing deductions. Gathering these documents systematically before beginning tax preparation helps ensure accuracy and completeness.

How to Submit Your Prepared Return

Once a tax return is prepared, taxpayers have options for submission, though actual filing can only occur after the IRS opens its processing system. Electronic filing, or e-file, is the most common method, offering efficiency and faster processing times. This can be done through commercial tax software, which guides users through preparation and submission, or via a tax professional who electronically transmits the return. The IRS also offers free e-file options for eligible taxpayers, often based on income thresholds.

Alternatively, taxpayers can file a paper return by printing and mailing it to the appropriate IRS address. This method results in longer processing times for refunds compared to e-filing. Regardless of the chosen submission method, the constraint remains the IRS’s annual processing start date. Submitting a return, electronically or by mail, prior to this date will not result in it being processed.

Key Factors Before Filing

Before submitting a tax return, especially when filing early, taxpayers should consider several factors. Wait until all income statements and tax forms, such as W-2s and various 1099s, have been received. Some forms, like those from brokerage accounts, may arrive later in the tax season. Filing with incomplete information could lead to inaccuracies, potentially requiring an amended return.

An amended return, filed using Form 1040-X, corrects errors on a previously submitted tax return. This process can delay any refund or result in additional taxes owed. Reviewing the entire return for accuracy and completeness before submission helps prevent complications. If a taxpayer needs more time to gather documents or prepare their return, they can request an extension to file. This pushes the filing deadline but does not extend the deadline for paying any taxes owed.