Dupage Policy Journal

The Illinois Department of Revenue and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have officially begun accepting tax returns for the 2023 tax season. Taxpayers are encouraged to file their returns electronically as early as possible and choose direct deposit for the fastest processing and issuance of refunds.

According to the Illinois Department of Revenue, taxpayers can file their state returns through MyTax Illinois, the department's free online account management program. MyTax Illinois has been enhanced to allow taxpayers to file returns with or without an account, make payments, respond to department inquiries, and check the status of refunds using the "Where's My Refund" link.

"We strongly encourage taxpayers to file their returns electronically and choose direct deposit for the fastest processing and issuance of refunds," said the Illinois Department of Revenue.

The IRS also offers free filing options for federal tax returns through the Free File website. Taxpayers can utilize Free File Fillable forms, which are available at no cost to any income level, and electronically file their own forms.

"The IRS is committed to providing free and accessible filing options for taxpayers. We encourage taxpayers to take advantage of the Free File website and file their federal returns electronically," said an IRS spokesperson.

While most IRS refunds are issued in less than 21 days, some returns may require additional review and therefore take longer. Taxpayers can check the status of their refund through the "Where's My Refund" tool or the IRS2Go app.

In addition to the start of the tax season, the IRS has implemented several changes for the 2024 tax filing year. These changes include expanded in-person service through the opening/reopening of Taxpayer Assistance Centers, an expanded customer call back feature to reduce phone wait times, improvements to the "Where's My Refund" tool, enhanced paperless processing, and enhanced IRS online accounts that include chat help and the ability to store bank accounts for payments.

"The IRS is dedicated to improving its technology and customer service processes. With the Inflation Reduction Act, we have allocated tens of billions of dollars to enhance our services and provide a better experience for taxpayers," said an IRS representative.

Furthermore, the IRS will be launching a Direct File pilot program in mid-March, which will allow certain taxpayers the option to file their returns directly with the IRS for free.

As the tax season begins, taxpayers are reminded of the importance of filing their returns on time and paying any money owed by the April 15, 2024, deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

"Taxpayers should ensure they file their returns on time and pay any amount owed by the deadline to avoid unnecessary penalties and interest charges," advised the Illinois Department of Revenue.

The tax season is now underway, and taxpayers are encouraged to take advantage of the online filing options and electronic services provided by the Illinois Department of Revenue and the IRS to ensure a smooth and efficient tax filing process.