The recently ordered hiring freeze at the IRS might have you worried about what will happen to your tax return. This filing method will speed up the process.

And the potential loss of expertise in information technology and cybersecurity could put both agency efficiency and taxpayer information at risk.

Before filing, taxpayers should have their: Social Security numbers for everyone listed on the tax return. Tax forms such as W-2s, 1099s, 1098s and other income documents. IRS letters they may have citing an amount received for a certain tax deduction or credit.

Direct File allows some taxpayers to file their returns online directly with the IRS for no cost and is available to about half the country.

So, no matter how early you file, remember that the federal tax return deadline (Tax Day) is April 15th, 2025. The federal extended deadline is October 15th, 2025 for most taxpayers (but taxes owed are still due by April 15). For more information on both federal and state tax return deadlines, check out Kiplinger’s reports: