2022 Tax Filing Resources

The IRS will officially open the 2022 filing season for filing 2021 tax returns on January 24, 2022.

ALERT: if you submit your tax return prior to this date, it will be held until the filing season opens because the IRS computers need to be updated via programming before any returns can begin processing.
But before you file that federal tax return here’s some steps to follow and information to consider.

Prepare

Both TAS and IRS have several resources to help you gather the documents you need and prepare before you complete that tax form. Here’s some of our favorites:

• Steps to Take Now to Get a Jump on Your Taxes
• Online tools to help you get the information you need
• Follow these tips to help prevent common issues and avoid refund delays
• Check if you are eligible for military tax benefits

Review Tax Filing Options and File

There are many options for filing a tax return. You should review these before making your final decision on how you will file. We recommend choosing an option where you can electronically file as it is faster and safer. It also offers the benefit of identifying basic errors up-front in the filing process as opposed to filing by paper where it can take several weeks before you know if there is something that needs fixing.

Important note: When using e-file, you must sign your e-filed return electronically. You can sign using the Self-Select PIN or by using your prior-year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). If using the AGI option, see the IRS Alert about what special amount to use if your 2020 return has not been processed yet or if you previously used the IRS Non-Filers tool in 2021 to register for an advance Child Tax Credit payment or third Economic Impact Payment in 2021.

We recommend reviewing the web pages below for more information about filing:

• Filing Returns
• File
• Electronic Filing Options for Individuals including Free File
• International Taxpayers

If you choose to file a paper tax return, know that some IRS addresses have changed, so check Where to File on IRS.gov for active addresses before filing or mailing payments.
Help with preparing and filing tax returns

Tax laws and completing tax returns in certain circumstances can be complicated. Here are some resources should you need or want help:

• TAS Tax Tip: Choosing the right tax return preparer for you
• If you cannot afford the services of a Tax Professional, you may qualify to use the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs
  • The IRS also offers free tax help to members of the military and their families through the VITA program.

More resources

• IRS Forms, Instructions & Publications
• Filing information for Individuals
• Filing information for Businesses and Self-employed
• Filing information for Charities and Nonprofits
• Where’s My Refund?
• Paying Your Taxes

TAS News

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) website is now available in Spanish: https://es.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov. You may access the English and Spanish versions using the drop down in the upper right-hand corner of the site.