As a tax professional with years of experience helping clients navigate IRS requirements, I recommend starting your 2021 tax preparation early. The COVID-19 pandemic shifted federal tax deadlines in 2020 to July 15, and 2021 saw a brief extension to May 17 for some. However, we're returning to the standard mid-April timeline. Due to holidays, most filers have until April 18 (April 15 is Emancipation Day in D.C.). Residents of Maine and Massachusetts get until April 19 for Patriots' Day. Need more time? Request an extension for an October 17 deadline.
The IRS notes ongoing pandemic-related delays in processing paper returns, so e-filing remains the quickest, most reliable option—whether you're filing a simple Form 1040 or handling multiple 1099s as a freelancer.
Parents who received monthly Child Tax Credit advances (up to $300 per child from July to December 2021) won't see them continue into 2022. The 2021 maximum credit rose to $4,000 (income-dependent), so claim any unreceived amounts. The IRS sends Letter 6419 detailing advances paid. Learn more via this FAQ or check payments here.
For the third Economic Impact Payment in 2021, expect Letter 6475 confirming amounts received. Eligible non-recipients can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. Other changes include an expanded Earned Income Tax Credit and a non-itemizer charitable deduction. Visit the IRS Tax Tips page or consult a certified accountant for personalized advice.
The IRS provides comprehensive online tools for U.S. taxpayers to calculate, e-file, pay, or request refunds. Here's expert guidance on using them effectively.
Options vary by income and comfort level. If your 2021 adjusted gross income was $73,000 or less, use IRS Free File for guided, free third-party software. Note: Post-2019 reforms ensure free services are prominent after past issues with providers like TurboTax. Proceed cautiously and verify costs.
For incomes over $73,000, IRS Free File fillable forms are available from January 24—no software support, no direct payments. For gig income tips, see the IRS Tax Tips page.
Beginners should opt for commercial e-file software or an authorized preparer. Low-income filers ($58,000 or less) qualify for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA); seniors 60+ for Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). Use the IRS locator tool—many offer virtual help amid the pandemic. Find IRS-approved preparers here.
Secure options include:
E-filing ensures refunds in under 21 days typically. Track status online or via the IRS2Go app for payments, status checks, and more.
