Images by Tang Ming Tung | DigitalVision | Getty Images
Tax securities theft remains a “serious problem”
One important reason to submit an early return is to avoid tax identity theft, experts say. By submitting earlier, you can block burglars from filing fraudulent returns using your Social Security number, Brewer said.
Tax-related identity theft continues.”Serious problems“As many victims face delays in processing and refunds, national taxpayer advocate Erin Collins wrote in a January report to Congress.
At the end of fiscal year 2024, the average processing time to resolve identity theft victim support cases was over 22 months, up from 19 months the previous year, Collins reported.
The IRS confirmed the 2024 filing season Over 15,600 Identity theft will rise from around 12,600 in 2023, according to a financial report issued on April 30th.
“Measure twice and cut once.”
Even if you are eager to refund or submit early because you want to protect yourself from identity theft, you need a complete and accurate return to avoid delays, experts say.
But once you get the form you need, “Don't rush to 'submit',” says Tom Osaben, registered agent and director of tax content and government relations for the National Association of Tax Professionals. said.
You should always re-check important details, such as your name, Social Security number, bank information, and other filing data. When it comes to returning accuracy, we aim to “measure twice and cut once.”
IRS layoffs can affect services
However, if you submit an accurate return electronically and choose direct deposit for payment, your refund should not be affected, O'Saben said.
Usually, you can expect the IRS to process returns on electronic declarations Within 21 days. According to the agency, “correction or additional reviews” may take some time.
“Prohibited a [system] Crush, I'm going to expect business as usual,” Osaben said.
