IRS Now Accepting 2010 Tax Returns: Tax Filing Season Beginning?

Jan 14, 2011
Lena Gott

When Can I File Federal Taxes for 2010? - Dani Simmonds

Wondering when you can file 2010 taxes? Tax return season begins January 2011 for some, February 2011 for others. Learn about the IRS tax filing delay.

On January 14, 2011, the IRS announced its readiness to accept 2010 federal income tax returns. This is good news for the majority of Americans who are eagerly awaiting their W-2s and 1099s. As soon as those arrive in the mail, you can file a tax return, unless you are subject to the 2010 tax return delay caused by the recent tax relief act.

Is the IRS Really Ready to Accept Returns? Is There a February Tax Filing Delay?

Although it is not a well-known fact, millions of individuals cannot file their returns just yet. The IRS is not ready to process approximately 7-10% of the tax filing public’s returns.

Due to the recent passage of the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, the IRS still needs time to update its computer systems. The IRS estimates that nine million taxpayers are affected by this delay.

Can I File My Tax Return Yet? Who Can’t File Income Tax Returns Until February 2011?

In recent weeks, the IRS announced that those who file Schedule A, claim the higher education tuition and fees deduction, or claim the educator expense deduction may have to wait until late February to file their tax returns.

But, in IR-2011-4, the IRS indicated that its systems should be ready no later than mid-February.

When Can You File 2010 Taxes? IRS Accepting Most Tax Returns Now

It is important to note that the February tax return filing delay is applicable to both paper and electronically filed tax returns. Keep in mind that the IRS is now ready to accept most returns.

For perspective on this, consider that the IRS processed 141 million tax returns last year, yet only 9 million returns are expected to be affected by the delay.

Can’t File Taxes Yet? What to do if Your Federal Income Tax Return is Delayed

What should you do if you can’t file taxes yet? The IRS recommends getting a head start on your return. In fact, the IRS notes that most third party tax software providers will automatically hold your return until they have the green light to file for you.

Of course, taxpayers should double-check this with the third party provider before relying on the software to know when to file. TurboTax and H&R Block self preparation software will be equipped to handle this, but lesser-known providers may not.

Sources:

IRS e-file Launches Today: Most Taxpayers Can File Immediately (IR-2011-4). Retrieved from irs.gov on January 14, 2011.

Free File Brand-Name Software and Online Forms Available Today (IR-2011-5). Retrieved from irs.gov on January 14, 2011.