The IRS announced that the Service would begin accepting and processing 2019 tax year returns for individual tax return filers on Monday, January 27, 2020. This opening date is set to ensure the security and readiness of key tax processing systems and to address the potential impact of recent tax legislation on 2019 returns. Further, the deadline to file 2019 tax returns and pay any tax owed would be Wednesday, April 15, 2020.

The IRS has expected more than 150 million tax returns to be filed for the 2019 tax year. “The IRS encourages everyone to consider filing electronically and choosing direct deposit,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “It’s fast, accurate and the best way to get your refund as quickly as possible.”

Free help is available to taxpayers for preparing and filing taxes through IRS Free File online or free tax help from trained volunteers at community sites around the country. Additionally, people can find answers to tax questions and resolve tax issues online on IRS.gov. Other useful IRS services include the Let Us Help You page that helps answer most tax questions and the IRS Services Guide that links to these and other IRS services.

Finally, the IRS reminded taxpayers that they do not have to wait until the opening date to start their tax return or contact a reputable tax preparer.

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