Most taxpayers are well-aware that the tax filing deadline is April 15, but in some years (like this year), the filing date may be delayed. For the 2023 calendar year, the filing deadline was bumped to April 18.
Why the filing date has been pushed back
The filing deadline to submit 2022 tax returns or an extension to file and pay tax owed is Tuesday, April 18, 2023, for most taxpayers. Why? Because according to the law, Washington, D.C., holidays impact tax deadlines for everyone in the same way that federal holidays do. This year’s due date is April 18, instead of April 15, because of the weekend and the District of Columbia’s Emancipation Day holiday, which falls on Monday, April 17.
More than 168 million individual tax returns are expected to be filed this year. And despite the delayed filing deadline, it’s expected that the vast majority of returns will be filed before the April 18 deadline.
Additionally, because the three previous tax seasons have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the IRS has taken additional measures to improve this year’s filing for taxpayers. For example, due to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, the IRS has hired more than 5,000 new telephone assistors (and added more in-person staff) to help support taxpayers.
Does this mean my refund will be delayed?
Not necessarily, however, the IRS still wants people to remember that e-filing a return will help them get their refund the quickest. The IRS anticipates most taxpayers will receive their refund within 21 days of their e-file date, if they choose direct deposit and there are no issues with their tax return. For example, if their social security number is entered incorrectly, there are mistakes with their math, or they enter incorrect bank routing and/or account numbers, their refund is likely to be delayed.
Taxpayers who need assistance in filing their return should note that there are various types of tax return preparers that they can choose from, including enrolled agents, certified public accountants, attorneys and some who don’t have a professional credential. Choosing a licensed, experienced tax professional will help ensure your filing goes smoothly.
If you need help filing your 2022 taxes and you want to speak with a licensed CPA, we’re here to help. Call the office of Hughes, Snell & Co., PA to schedule an appointment.
