For the 2024 tax year (the return you file in 2025), the IRS opened tax filing on January 27, 2025, and the regular filing deadline is April 15, 2025. Many people can start preparing earlier, but the return cannot actually be submitted until the IRS opens filing.
Federal filing window
Most individual federal returns for 2024 income can be filed any time from January 27, 2025, through April 15, 2025, unless you get an extension. If you request an extension, you generally have until October 15, 2025, to file, though any tax owed is still due by April 15.
When you personally can file
You can file as soon as both of these are true: the IRS has opened the season (January 27, 2025) and you have all required forms such as W‑2s and 1099s. Employers usually must send W‑2s by the end of January, and some investment forms can arrive in February, so many filers wait until they are sure nothing is missing.
State taxes
State tax filing dates often follow similar calendars but can differ depending on where you live. Checking your state revenue or tax department website will give you the exact start date and deadline for your state return.
