The 2024 tax season officially began, and the deadline for filing federal income tax returns is April 15, 2025. It’s important to mark these dates on your calendar to avoid late filing penalties and interest charges. For those who need more time, filing for an extension can provide an additional six months, pushing the deadline to October 15, 2025.

The IRS has implemented several changes and enhancements for the 2024 tax season to make the filing process more efficient and user-friendly:

1. Enhanced Online Account: Taxpayers can now access their Online Account to view, approve, and electronically sign power of attorney and tax information authorizations from their tax professional. The Online Account also allows individuals to view their tax owed, payment history, and key data from their most recently filed tax return.
2. Improved “Where’s My Refund?” Tool: The IRS has updated the “Where’s My Refund?” tool to provide more detailed refund status messages in plain language. This enhancement aims to reduce the need for taxpayers to call the IRS for basic refund inquiries.
3. Expanded In-Person Services: The IRS has opened or reopened Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) nationwide, offering extended hours to meet taxpayers’ needs. This expansion aims to provide more accessible in-person support for those who require it.
4. Digital Asset Reporting: Taxpayers are reminded to report all earned income, including income from digital asset transactions, the gig economy, and foreign sources. The IRS has emphasized the importance of accurate reporting to avoid potential penalties.

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program is a valuable resource for taxpayers, especially those over 50 and with low to moderate income. This program offers free tax assistance and preparation services, ensuring that taxpayers receive all the credits and deductions they are entitled to. Here are some key features of the program:

1. Free Tax Assistance: The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program provides free tax preparation services to anyone, regardless of age or membership status. The focus is on helping older adults and those with low to moderate income.
2. IRS-Certified Volunteers: The program’s volunteers are IRS-certified annually, ensuring they are up-to-date with the latest tax laws and regulations. This certification process guarantees that taxpayers receive accurate and reliable assistance.
3. Multiple Service Options: Taxpayers can choose from various service options, including in-person assistance at local Tax-Aide sites, virtual tax preparation, and self-preparation with coaching from IRS-certified volunteers. This flexibility allows taxpayers to select the option that best suits their needs.
4. Nationwide Availability: The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program operates at over 3,600 locations across the country, including libraries, community centers, and other public spaces. Taxpayers can use the Tax-Aide Locator to find a site near them and schedule an appointment.
5. Comprehensive Support: In addition to tax preparation, the program offers assistance with understanding tax laws, filing requirements, and available credits and deductions. This comprehensive support helps taxpayers maximize their refunds and minimize their tax liabilities.

AARP Tax-Aide Program Locations in Our Listening Area

Burnet	Burnet AARP Tax Site	402 E Jackson Street	Monday: 9am – 1pm
Cedar Park	Cedar Park Recreation Center	1435 Main Street	Tuesday: 11am – 3:30pm
			Thursday: 11am – 3:30pm
Copperas Cove	Copperas Cove Public Library	501 S Main Street	Wednesday: 9am – 2pm
Georgetown	Cowan Creek Amenity & Fitness Center	1433 Cool Spring Way	Friday: 8:30am – 3:30pm
	Georgetown Public Library	402 W 8th Street	Wednesday: 9:30am – 3:30pm
			Saturday: 9:30am – 3:30pm
Hewitt	First Baptist Church of Hewitt	301 S 1st Street	Tuesday: 11am – 4pm
			Wednesday: 11am – 4pm
			Thursday: 11am – 4 pm
Killeen	Lions Club Park Senior Center	1700 E Stan Schlueter Loop	Monday: 8am – 11:30am
			Thursday: 8am – 11:30am
			Friday: 8am – 11:30am
Lampasas	Lampasas AARP Tax Center	302 E 3rd Street	Tuesday: 9am – 1pm
Leander	Leander Public Library	1011 S Bagdad Road	Monday: 11am – 3:30pm
			Friday: 11am – 3:30pm
Marble Falls	Trinity Episcopal Church	909 Avenue D	Thursday: 9am – 1pm
Round Rock	Allen Baca Senior Center	301 W Bagdad Avenue Bldg #2	Monday: 10am – 2pm
			Wednesday: 10am – 2pm
Temple	Rose Hall	107 N 9th Street	Tuesday: 8am – 12pm
			Thursday: 8am – 12pm
Waco	Neighbor Works Waco	922 Franklin Avenue	Tuesday: 11am – 4pm
			Thursday: 11am – 4pm
	Providence Hospital	6901 Medical Parkway	Monday: 11am – 4pm
			Wednesday: 11am – 4pm

To ensure a smooth and stress-free tax filing experience, consider the following tips:

1. Gather Necessary Documents: Collect all relevant tax documents, such as Forms W-2, 1099, and records of digital asset transactions. Keeping these documents organized will make the filing process more efficient.
2. Use IRS Online Tools: Take advantage of the IRS’s online tools and resources, such as the Tax Withholding Estimator and the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, to stay informed and avoid common filing errors.
3. File Electronically: E-filing your tax return and opting for direct deposit can expedite the refund process and reduce the risk of errors. The IRS issues most refunds within 21 days for electronically filed returns with no issues.
4. Seek Professional Help: If you have complex tax situations or need assistance, consider consulting a tax professional. They can provide valuable guidance and ensure your return is accurate and compliant with current tax laws.

The 2024 tax season brings several updates and improvements aimed at making the filing process more efficient and user-friendly. By staying informed and utilizing available resources, taxpayers can navigate this tax season with confidence and ease. Remember to mark important dates, gather necessary documents, and take advantage of the IRS’s online tools to ensure a smooth filing experience. Additionally, the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program offers valuable support for those in need of free tax assistance, making it easier for taxpayers to file their returns accurately and on time.