Most tax returns are file on

That's a return to the norm after the filing season was delayed a few weeks last year so the IRS could make preparations for Covid relief programs, and the deadline was moved to May Though much of the federal Covid relief for individuals has already been distributed, much of it can still affect tax returns , including the third stimulus check, unemployment insurance changes, the federal student loan pause and the enhanced child tax credit.

The agency is also sending letters to filers with information on their stimulus and child tax credit payments for These letters should help tax payers determine if they received the correct amount of money and reconcile any mistakes. For the speediest refund, the IRS encourages filers to submit their returns electronically and choose direct deposit. It expects most taxpayers receiving a refund should get it within 21 days of when they file electronically, assuming there are no issues with the return.

The tables are classified by AGI classifications. Data represent the three critical points in the annual filing season and form a baseline for comparison of year to year trends.

These tables present data from the population of all Forms processed by the IRS on or before week 21 of the calendar year. Returns filed reflect income earned in the year preceding the filing year, but exclude taxpayers who requested a 6-month filing extension by filing Form , Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U. Individual Income Tax Return. These tables present data from the population of all Forms processed by the IRS on or before week 30 of the calendar year.

These tables present data from the population of all Forms processed by the IRS on or before week 47 of the calendar year. Returns filed reflect income earned in the year preceding the filing year.

These data have been developed as part of a research program to provide authoritative data for use by researchers that would avoid the inaccuracies that may occur by using incomplete data. The statistics primarily represent income earned in the prior year, but will include some late-filed returns for earlier tax years. The final column in each table indicates the share of income from the sale of capital assets represented in the income presented.

By comparing the data presented in these tables over time, they can be used to develop early estimates of changes in the economy or to update forecasts of economic activity that were developed using older data.

And there are also fewer auditors than at any time since World War II. Treasury officials are urging taxpayers to get their tax returns in as early as possible. Taxpayers do not need to wait until previous returns to process to submit their returns. Tax filing season will run through April 18, Officials are encouraging taxpayers to file electronically with direct deposit to help ensure issuing refunds do not face processing delays.

They're also urging taxpayers to check for accuracy when filing — especially making sure to report accurate stimulus payment amounts received and advanced child tax credit payments — to avoid delays. If they choose direct deposit and there are no issues with the tax return, the IRS anticipates most taxpayers will receive their refund within 21 days of when they file electronically.

Reaching the IRS to answer questions will continue to be a challenge this year, the agency said.