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IRS recommends filers do this over the summer

The Internal Revenue Service 1040 tax form for 2022 is seen on April 17, 2023. The IRS said Friday, April 26, 2024, more than 140,000 taxpayers filed their taxes through its new direct file pilot program. It says the program's users claimed more than $90 million in refunds, saving roughly $5.6 million in fees they would have spent with commercial tax preparation companies.

The Internal Revenue Service 1040 tax form for 2022 is seen on April 17, 2023.Jon Elswick | The Associated Press File

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Don’t wait, file now.

That’s the message from the Internal Revenue Service as the deadline for filing extensions is nearing. Taxpayers who requested an extension to file should consider using IRS Free File and other resources on IRS.gov now instead of waiting until the Oct. 15 deadline.

“While taxes may not be top of mind during summer, taking advantage of the resources available at IRS.gov can help individuals avoid a possible deadline crunch later this fall,” the IRS said. “There’s no need to wait if taxpayers are ready to file.”

Here are some steps to take now

Free File

IRS Free File can help with qualifying taxpayers. To use the free service, individuals must have an Adjusted Gross Income, or AGI, of $79,000 or less.

Other online services

The IRS also recommends other online services that can be used for taxpayers. They include:

  • Use the Interactive Tax Assistant tool for answers to most individual tax questions.
  • Create or sign into an IRS Online Account to view tax records, manage communication preferences, make payments and more.
  • File and pay electronically as soon as possible to reduce penalties and interest for those who have not filed yet and owe. While extensions cover filing, it does not cover delays in payments.
  • Make payments or set up payment plans online at IRS.gov/payments.
  • Find the most up-to-date information about tax refunds using the Where’s My Refund? tool.

Taxpayer Assistance Centers are open

You can use Taxpayer Assistance Center Locator tool to help people find their closest IRS office. Visits are by appointment only; call 844-545-5640 to schedule.

Get free local tax preparation

Taxpayers who have disabilities, have limited English-speaking abilities, or make $64,000 or less a year can use Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs in their local area. These programs offer free basic tax return preparation services for eligible taxpayers. A special locator tool can help taxpayers find a site in their area.

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