January 15, 2018

Recent tax reform legislation has introduced uncertainty to the beginning of the 2018 tax season. The IRS has yet to declare an opening date for e-filing and approvals for key tax forms are being withheld pending finalization of new regulations. These delays are affecting the entire tax software industry and will require governmental action after the New Year’s holiday to permit any technology providers to progress further toward seasonal readiness.

The Wolters Kluwer team wants you to know that we are continuously monitoring the situation and communicating directly with the IRS to ensure that we are prepared for the start of the filing season. Our teams are ready to handle any necessary changes and support our valued customers to ensure their success this season.

Owing to delays in final passage of the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” and pending extenders legislation, we are adjusting estimated availability dates for some forms and e-file types.  We encourage you to monitor the E-File Availability list at https://support.taxwise.com/support/JurisdictionStatus.aspx along with the Forms Release Schedule at https://support.taxwise.com/support/FormDevelopmentStatus.aspx for the latest information. The next TaxWise product updates are scheduled for early January and will enable e-file capabilities. However, IRS approval of new forms will still be required and the TaxWise forms library will be updated as quickly as possible once we receive those approvals.

We share your concern about these developments and are taking steps to be as responsive as possible to this evolving situation.  For more information on seasonal issues, please visit the Seasonal Readiness Checklist (https://www.cchsfs.com/tax-season-checklist/) often for important updates.

January 15, 2018

During the holiday shopping season, shoppers are looking for the perfect gifts. At the same time, criminals are looking for sensitive data. This data includes credit card numbers, financial accounts and Social Security numbers. Cybercriminals can use this information to file a fraudulent tax return.

This tip is part of National Tax Security Awareness Week. The IRS is partnering with state tax agencies, the tax industry and groups across the country to remind people about the importance of data protection.

Anyone with an online presence can do a few simple things to protect their identity and personal information. Following these eight steps can also help taxpayers protect their tax return and refund in 2018:
 

• Shop at familiar online retailers. Generally, sites with an “s” in “https” at the start of the URL are secure. Users can also look for the “lock” icon in your browser’s URL bar. That said, some criminals may get a security certificate, so the “s” may not always mean a site is legitimate.  

• Avoid unprotected Wi-Fi. Users should not do online financial transactions when using unprotected public Wi-Fi. Unprotected public Wi-Fi hotspots may allow thieves to view transactions.

• Learn to recognize and avoid phishing emails that pose as a trusted source. These emails can come from a source that looks like a legitimate bank or even the IRS. These emails may include a link that takes the user to a fake website. From there, the thieves can steal usernames and passwords.

• Keep a clean machine. This includes computers, phones and tablets. Users should install security software to protect against malware that may steal data. This software also protects against viruses that may damage files.

• Use passwords that are strong, long and unique. Experts suggest a minimum of 10 characters. Use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters. Use a different password for each account.

• Use multi-factor authentication when available. Some financial institutions, email providers and social media sites allow users to set their accounts for multi-factor authentication. This means users may need a security code, usually sent as a text to their mobile phone, in addition to a username and password.

• Sign up for account alerts. Some financial institutions will send email or text alerts to an account holder when there is a withdrawal or change to their accounts. Generally, people can check their account profile to see what added protections may be available.

• Encrypt sensitive data and protect it with a password. People who keep financial records, tax returns or any personal information on their computer should protect this data. Users should also back up important data to an external source. When disposing of a computer, mobile phone or tablet, people should make sure they wipe the hard drive of all information before trashing.

January 08, 2018

T

The IRS has not yet announced a date that it will begin accepting individual tax returns for the 2018 tax filing season. At the present time, the IRS is continuing to update its programming and processing systems for 2018. In addition, the IRS continues to closely monitor potential legislation that could affect the 2018 tax season, including a number of “extender” tax provisions that expired at the end of 2016 that could potentially be renewed for tax year 2017 by Congress.
The IRS anticipates it will not be at a point to announce a filing season start date until later in the calendar year. The IRS will continue to work closely with the nation’s tax professionals and software community as preparations continue for the 2018 tax filing season.
Speculation on the Internet that the IRS will begin accepting tax returns on Jan. 22 or after the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday in January is inaccurate and misleading; no such date has been set.

Refund Timing

In addition, the IRS cautions taxpayers from relying on misleading refund charts on the internet that project tax refund dates. Any speculation about refund dates in 2018 is premature. In addition, these refund charts can overlook that many different factors affect the timing of tax refunds, ranging from the accuracy of information on the return to whether a taxpayer files electronically. In addition, the IRS and state revenue departments have increased their security protocols against identity theft and refund fraud, which also can affect the timing of federal and state refunds.
The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. However, it’s possible your tax return may require additional review and take longer. Where’s My Refund? has the most up to date information available about your refund. The tool is updated no more than once a day so you don’t need to check more often. If you use a mobile device you can download the IRS2Go app to check your refund status.
E-File coupled with Direct Deposit remains the fastest way for taxpayers to receive their refunds.
Due to law changes first affecting last year’s returns, the IRS cannot issue refunds for tax returns claiming the EITC or ACTC before mid-February. This law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund — even the portion not associated with the EITC or ACTC. However, there is no need to wait to file such returns since the IRS will process them to the point of refund and then begin refund release when permitted by law.

June 21, 2017

On June 1, 2017, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia upheld the Internal Revenue Service’s authority to require the use of a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), but enjoined the IRS from charging a user fee for the issuance and renewal of PTINs.  As a result of this order, PTIN registration and renewal was suspended on June 2.

The IRS, working with the Department of Justice, is still considering how to proceed, but will make PTINs available while deciding how to address the court order.  The IRS is resuming the issuance of PTINS, without charge, on June 21, 2017.   As additional information becomes available, it will be posted on our Tax Pros page.

FAQs

Q: Are federal tax return preparers still required to have a PTIN?

A: Yes. The court decision upheld the IRS’ authority to require the use of a PTIN. Anyone who prepares, or assists in preparing, all or substantially all of a federal tax return for compensation is required to have a PTIN. All enrolled agents must also have a valid PTIN.

Q: Will PTIN holders be receiving refunds for previous fees paid?

A: The IRS, working with the Department of Justice, is considering how to proceed. As additional information becomes available, it will be posted on our Tax Pros page.

Q: If I obtain or renew my PTIN now at no cost, will I have to pay for it later?

A: We can make no determinations with respect to future activity at this time.

Q: Is the PTIN Helpline reopening?

A: Yes. It will also reopen on June 21, 2017.

Q: Is a PTIN still required to file a tax return, to be an Enrolled Agent or schedule an appointment for the Special Enrollment Examination

A: Yes.

Q: Will I be able to view my continuing education records when the PTIN system reopens?

A: Yes. All previous information will still be displayed in online PTIN accounts.

Q: Do I need to contact the IRS or file a claim for refund for previously paid PTIN fees?

A: Do not contact the IRS. Any questions regarding claims or refunds should be directed to the PTIN Fees Class Action Administrator at www.ptinclassaction.com.

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June 15, 2017

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WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service is now accepting renewal applications for the Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) set to expire at the end of 2017. The agency urges taxpayers affected by changes to the ITIN program to submit their renewal applications as soon as possible to avoid the rush.

In the second year of the renewal program, the IRS has made changes to make the process smoother for taxpayers. The renewal process for 2018 is beginning now, more than three months earlier than last year.

“This is an important program, and the IRS is opening the renewal process several months earlier to help taxpayers and make the process smoother,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. “We encourage taxpayers affected by the ITIN changes to review the program’s details and renew ITINs this summer to avoid delays that could affect their tax filing and refunds next year.”

Under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, ITINs that have not been used on a federal tax return at least once in the last three consecutive years will expire Dec. 31, 2017, and ITINs with middle digits 70, 71, 72 or 80 will also expire at the end of the year. Affected taxpayers who expect to file a tax return in 2018 must submit a renewal application.

As a reminder, ITINs with middle digits of 78 and 79 already expired last year. Taxpayers with these ITIN numbers can renew at any time.

ITINs are used by people who have tax filing or payment obligations under U.S. law but who are not eligible for a Social Security number. ITIN holders who have questions should visit the ITIN information page on IRS.gov and take a few minutes to understand the guidelines.

Last year, the IRS launched a wider education effort to share information with ITIN holders. To help taxpayers, the IRS has a variety of informational materials, including flyers and fact sheets, available in several languages on IRS.gov.

The IRS continues to work with partner groups and others in the ITIN community to share information widely about these important changes.  

Who Should Renew an ITIN

Taxpayers whose ITIN is expiring and who need to file a tax return in 2018 must submit a renewal application. Others do not need to take any action.

·         ITINs with the middle digits 70, 71, 72, or 80 (For example: 9NN-70-NNNN; NNN-71-NNNN; 9NN-72-NNNN; 9NN-80-NNNN) need to be renewed even if the taxpayer has used it in the last three years. The IRS will begin sending the CP-48 Notice, You must renew your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file your U.S. tax return, later this summer to affected taxpayers. The notice explains the steps to take to renew the ITIN if it will be included on a U.S. tax return filed in 2018. Taxpayers who receive the notice after taking action to renew their ITIN do not need to take further action unless another family member is affected.

·         Taxpayers can also renew their ITINs with middle digits 78 and 79 that have already expired.

Family Option Remains Available

Taxpayers with an ITIN with middle digits 70, 71, 72 or 80 have the option to renew ITINs for their entire family at the same time. Those who have received a renewal letter from the IRS can choose to renew the family’s ITINs together even if family members have an ITIN with middle digits other than 70, 71, 72 or 80. Family members include the tax filer, spouse and any dependents claimed on the tax return.

How to Renew an ITIN

To renew an ITIN, a taxpayer must complete a Form W-7 and submit all required documentation. Taxpayers submitting a Form W-7 to renew their ITIN are not required to attach a federal tax return. However, taxpayers must still note a reason for needing an ITIN on the Form W-7. See the Form W-7 instructions for detailed information.

The IRS began accepting ITIN renewals today. There are three ways to submit the W-7 application package:

·         Mail the Form W-7, along with original identification documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them, to the IRS address listed on the Form W-7 instructions. The IRS will review the identification documents and return them within 60 days.

·         Taxpayers have the option to work with Certified Acceptance Agents (CAAs) authorized by the IRS to help them apply for an ITIN. CAAs can certify all identification documents for primary and secondary taxpayers and certify that an ITIN application is correct before submitting it to the IRS for processing. A CAA can also certify passports and birth certificates for dependents. This saves taxpayers from mailing original documents to the IRS.

·         In advance, taxpayers can call and make an appointment at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center instead of mailing original identification documents to the IRS.

Avoid Common Errors Now and Prevent Delays Next Year

Federal returns that are submitted in 2018 with an expired ITIN will be processed. However, exemptions and/or certain tax credits will be disallowed. Taxpayers will receive a notice in the mail advising them of the change to their tax return and their need to renew their ITIN. Once the ITIN is renewed, any applicable exemptions and credits will be restored and any refunds will be issued.

Additionally, several common errors can slow down and hold some ITIN renewal applications. The mistakes generally center on missing information and/or insufficient supporting documentation. The IRS urges any applicant to check over their form carefully before sending it to the IRS.

As a reminder, the IRS no longer accepts passports that do not have a date of entry into the U.S. as a stand-alone identification document for dependents from a country other than Canada or Mexico, or dependents of U.S. military personnel overseas. The dependent’s passport must have a date of entry stamp, otherwise the following additional documents to prove U.S. residency are required:

·         U.S. medical records for dependents under age 6,

·         U.S. school records for dependents under age 18, and

·         U.S. school records (if a student), rental statements, bank statements or utility bills listing the applicant’s name and U.S. address, if over age 18

IRS Encourages More Applicants for the Acceptance Agent Program to Expand ITIN Services

To increase the availability of ITIN services nationwide, particularly in communities with high ITIN usage, the IRS is actively recruiting Certified Acceptance Agents, and applications are now accepted year-round. Interested individuals, community outreach partners and volunteers at tax preparation sites are encouraged to review all program changes and requirements.

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February 05, 2017

“Where’s My Refund” isn’t wrong just because there’s no deposit date yet. Avoid #tax myths: http://go.usa.gov/x9HZu #IRS

#IRS tool ‎“Where’s My Refund” will update for early #EITC & ACTC refund filers after Feb. 15. Avoid the myth: http://go.usa.gov/x9HZu 

Delayed #EITC and ACTC #tax refunds will not be delivered on Feb. 15. Avoid the myth: http://go.usa.gov/x9HZu #IRS


The IRS will begin to release EITC/ACTC refunds starting Feb. 15. However, the IRS cautions taxpayers that these refunds likely won’t arrive in bank accounts or debit cards until the week of February 27 -- if there are no processing issues with the tax return and the taxpayer chose direct deposit. This additional period is due to several factors, including banking and financial systems needing time to process deposits.

Where's My Refund? ‎on IRS.gov and the IRS2Go phone app will be updated with projected deposit dates for early EITC /ACTC refund filers a few days after Feb. 15. Taxpayers will not see a refund date on Where's My Refund? ‎or through their software packages until then. The IRS, tax preparers and tax software will not have additional information on refund dates, so Where’s My Refund? remains the best way to check the status of a refund.

Why is my refund being held?

Beginning in 2017, if you claim the EITC or ACTC on your tax return, the IRS must hold your refund until Feb. 15. This new law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund — even the portion not associated with the EITC or ACTC. Like previous years, some tax refunds may be held if there are questions about the tax return or the IRS needs more information.

Will I get my refund on Feb. 15?

While the IRS will begin to issue EITC/ACTC refunds starting Feb. 15, you should not count on actually seeing your refund until the week of Feb. 27 -- if you chose direct deposit or a debit card and there are no processing issues with your tax return.

Why does it take so long for the funds to show up in my account?

It takes additional time for refunds to be processed after leaving the IRS, and for financial institutions to accept and deposit them to bank accounts and products like debit cards. Also many financial institutions do not process payments on weekends or holidays, which can affect when refunds reach taxpayers. For EITC and ACTC filers, the three-day holiday weekend involving President’s Day affects their refund timing.

How do I check the status of my refund?

Where's My Refund ‎on IRS.gov and the IRS2Go phone app remains the best way to check the status of a refund. Where’s My Refund will be updated with projected deposit dates for early EITC and ACTC refund filers a few days after Feb. 15. Taxpayers will not see a refund date on Where's My Refund ‎or through their software packages until then. The IRS, tax preparers and tax software will not have additional information on refund dates, so taxpayers should not contact or call them about refunds before the end of February.

February 03, 2017

WASHINGTON — As millions of people begin filing their tax returns, the Internal Revenue Service reminded taxpayers about some basic tips to keep in mind about their refunds.
During the early parts of the tax season, early filers are anxious to get details about their tax refunds. And in some social media, this can lead to misunderstandings and speculation about refunds. The IRS offers some tips to keep in mind.
Myth 1: All Refunds Are Delayed
While more than 90 percent of federal tax refunds are issued in the normal timeframe – less than 21 days – it is true some refunds may be delayed – but not all of them. Recent legislation requires the IRS to hold refunds for tax returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) until mid-February. Other returns may require additional review for a variety of reasons and take longer. For example, the IRS, along with its partners in the state’s and the nation’s tax industry, continue to strengthen security reviews to help protect against identity theft and refund fraud. The IRS encourages taxpayers to file as they normally would.
Myth 2: Calling the IRS or My Tax Professional Will Provide a Better Refund Date
Many people mistakenly think that talking to the IRS or calling their tax professional is the best way to find out when they will get their refund. In reality, the best way to check the status of a refund is online through the “Where’s My Refund?” tool at IRS.gov or via the IRS2Go mobile app.
Taxpayers eager to know when their refund will be arriving should use the "Where's My Refund" tool rather than calling and waiting on hold or ordering a tax transcript. The IRS updates the status of refunds once a day, usually overnight, so checking more than once a day will not produce new information. “Where’s My Refund” has the same information available to IRS telephone assistors so there is no need to call unless requested to do so by the refund tool.
Myth 3: Ordering a Tax Transcript a “Secret Way” to Get a Refund Date
Ordering a tax transcript will not help taxpayers find out when they will get their refund. The IRS notes that the information on a transcript does not necessarily reflect the amount or timing of a refund. While taxpayers can use a transcript to validate past income and tax filing status for mortgage, student and small business loan applications and to help with tax preparation they should use “Where’s My Refund?” to check the status of their refund.
Myth 4: “Where’s My Refund,” Must be Wrong Because There’s No Deposit Date Yet
Where's My Refund? ‎on both IRS.gov and the IRS2Go mobile app will be updated with projected deposit dates for early EITC and ACTC refund filers a few days after Feb. 15. Taxpayers claiming EITC or ACTC will not see a refund date on Where's My Refund? ‎or through their software package until then. The IRS, tax preparers and tax software will not have additional information on refund dates.
The IRS cautions taxpayers that these refunds likely will not start arriving in bank accounts or on debit cards until the week of Feb. 27 -- if there are no processing issues with the tax return and the taxpayer chose direct deposit. This additional period is due to several factors, including banking and financial systems needing time to process deposits. Taxpayers who have filed early in the filing season, but are claiming EITC or ACTC, should not expect their refund until the week of Feb. 27. The IRS reminds taxpayers that President’s Day weekend may impact when they get their refund since many financial institutions do not process payments on weekends or holidays.
See the What to Expect for Refunds in 2017 page and the Refunds FAQs page for more information.
Myth 5: Delayed Refunds, those Claiming EITC and/or ACTC, will be Delivered on Feb. 15
By law, the IRS cannot issue refunds before Feb. 15 for any tax return claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). The IRS must hold the entire refund, not just the part related to the EITC or ACTC. The IRS will begin to release these refunds starting Feb. 15.
These refunds likely won’t arrive in bank accounts or on debit cards until the week of Feb. 27. This is true as long as there is no additional review of the tax return required and the taxpayer chose direct deposit. Banking and financial systems need time to process deposits, which can take several days. .
More Information About “Where’s My Refund”
“Where’s My Refund?” can be checked within 24 hours after the IRS has received an e-filed return or four weeks after receipt of a mailed paper return. "Where’s My Refund?" has a tracker that displays progress through three stages: (1) Return Received, (2) Refund Approved and (3) Refund Sent.
Users who access “Where’s My Refund?” on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go app must have information from their current, pending tax return to access their refund information. The IRS reminds taxpayers claiming the EITC or the ACTC that recent legislation requires the IRS to hold those refunds until mid-February. Keep in mind that only a small percentage of total filers will fall into this situation. The change helps ensure that taxpayers get the refund they are owed by giving the IRS more time to help detect and prevent tax fraud.
The IRS continues to strongly encourage the use of e-file and direct deposit as the fastest and safest way to file an accurate return and receive a tax refund. More than four out of five tax returns are expected to be filed electronically, with a similar proportion of refunds issued through direct deposit.
Help for Taxpayers
The IRS reminds taxpayers they have a variety of options to get help filing and preparing their tax return on IRS.gov. Taxpayers can also, if eligible, receive help from a community volunteer. Go to IRS.gov and click on the “Filing” tab for more information.
Seventy percent of the nation’s taxpayers are eligible for IRS Free File. Commercial IRS partners offer free brand-name software to about 100 million individuals and families with incomes of $64,000 or less.
Online fillable forms provides electronic versions of IRS paper forms to all taxpayers regardless of income that can be prepared and filed by people comfortable with completing their own returns.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) offer free tax help to people who qualify. Go to irs.gov and enter “free tax prep” in the search box to learn more and find a nearby VITA or TCE site, or download the IRS2Go smartphone app to find a free tax prep provider.

February 02, 2017

Current year federal:
1099s can take a week to return acks, therefore we have many outstanding today. The status will show 'Transmitted to EFC' until the ack comes back accepted or rejected. You will not see a status change of 'sent to agency' for 1099 efiles. 

1099s- one small batch is not yet ack'd from Jan 29th and the rest are from Jan 31st to current. 

Current year state:
State acks are not considered late until outstanding for more than five days

CA and SC has some returns back to Jan 28th



Prior year efiles:
NJ and NY - some returns back to Jan 23rd
1099s-  back to Jan 23rd
2014 states- very small numbers but various states not ack'd back to Jan 27th

January 19, 2017

The start of the 2017 filing season is less than a week away! Don't forget - PTS users can now begin submitting individual returns. Most e-filed returns submitted will be held until the IRS MeF system opens on January 23rd.

Note: PTS does participate in the controlled release process with the IRS. As a result, a small number of returns may be transmitted to the IRS, and customers may see real acknowledgments/rejects. There is no guarantee that returns sent to the Electronic Filing Center (EFC) will be transmitted to the IRS early.
 

PATH Act Reminders:

• January 31st is the deadline for W-2s and 1099-MISC with nonemployee compensation returns. Please note that there are no automatic deadline extensions.

• Refunds for tax returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) will be held until February 15th. Read more >>

Additional tips to help prepare for tax season:

• Stay up-to-date on federal and state form availability.

• If you haven't already installed PTS 2016, make sure your work environment meets or exceeds the 2016 System Requirements before you install.

• Make sure we have your correct EFIN on file.

• Complete your ERO Bank Enrollment if you plan to offer settlement solutions or FeeCollect during the 2017 filing season.

• If your package includes e-Signature, make sure to activate this feature when you are installing PTS 2016. (Review the Tax Season Essentials program for more information.)

• Review the instructions on how to unlock your ADMIN software user name.

• Check out the Tax Season Readiness Checklist to ensure your office is prepared.

We look forward to a great 2017 filing season!

January 17, 2017

We are communicating normally with IRS now

The IRS issued this efile alert today to the industry.
We are still accepting your efiles, but holding them here until IRS is ready for us to send again.
This affects business efiles and individual efiles.

January 10, 2017

1040 MeF Schedule
 

• IRS stopped accepting returns and delivering acks at 11:59am EST Wednesday November 30, 2016.  

• Included in this announcement are e-files for Tax Years 2013, 2014 and 2015.   

  • After the cutoff time, the Electronic Filing Center (EFC) will not accept Individual Returns (Federal and State) until IRS comes back online January 23, 2017

  • Customers may continue picking up acknowledgements from the EFC through mid-December.

• 1040 efile opening date is Monday January 23, 2017. At that time, current year 2016 returns plus 2015 and 2014 prior year returns will be efileable.

• TaxWise desktop begins accepting efiles at some point the week of January 13th. This will include federal and bank returns plus any state returns that are efile-able. 

• TaxWise participates in the IRS controlled launch program, so some returns submitted before Jan 22nd may be delivered to IRS. However customers should expect that returns submitted early will not be transmitted until the IRS opens efile on Jan 23rd. 

• Returns sent early will not receive acks any earlier than those returns sent Jan 23rd.

Business MeF Schedule

• The IRS accepts Business tax returns as of January 6, 2017.  

  • Current year 2016 plus prior years 2015 and 2014 returns can be efiled now

  • Download the latest federal business modules and you can begin efiling federal business returns. 

  • State business modules will begin downloading the week of Jan 20th. Refer to these charts to know when modules are expected, when efile is expected, and when particular forms are printable.

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January 05, 2017

The IRS will begin to release EITC/ACTC refunds starting Feb. 15. However, the IRS cautions taxpayers that these refunds likely won’t arrive in bank accounts or debit cards until the week of February 27 -- if there are no processing issues with the tax return and the taxpayer chose direct deposit. This additional period is due to several factors, including banking and financial systems needing time to process deposits.

Where's My Refund? ‎on IRS.gov and the IRS2Go phone app will be updated with projected deposit dates for early EITC /ACTC refund filers a few days after Feb. 15. Taxpayers will not see a refund date on Where's My Refund? ‎or through their software packages until then. The IRS, tax preparers and tax software will not have additional information on refund dates, so Where’s My Refund? remains the best way to check the status of a refund.

Why is my refund being held?

Beginning in 2017, if you claim the EITC or ACTC on your tax return, the IRS must hold your refund until Feb. 15. This new law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund — even the portion not associated with the EITC or ACTC. Like previous years, some tax refunds may be held if there are questions about the tax return or the IRS needs more information.

Will I get my refund on Feb. 15?

While the IRS will begin to issue EITC/ACTC refunds starting Feb. 15, you should not count on actually seeing your refund until the week of Feb. 27 -- if you chose direct deposit or a debit card and there are no processing issues with your tax return.

Why does it take so long for the funds to show up in my account?

It takes additional time for refunds to be processed after leaving the IRS, and for financial institutions to accept and deposit them to bank accounts and products like debit cards. Also many financial institutions do not process payments on weekends or holidays, which can affect when refunds reach taxpayers. For EITC and ACTC filers, the three-day holiday weekend involving President’s Day affects their refund timing.

How do I check the status of my refund?

Where's My Refund ‎on IRS.gov and the IRS2Go phone app remains the best way to check the status of a refund. Where’s My Refund will be updated with projected deposit dates for early EITC and ACTC refund filers a few days after Feb. 15. Taxpayers will not see a refund date on Where's My Refund ‎or through their software packages until then. The IRS, tax preparers and tax software will not have additional information on refund dates, so taxpayers should not contact or call them about refunds before the end of February.

​

December 31, 2016

1040 MeF Schedule
 

• IRS stopped accepting returns and delivering acks at 11:59am EST Wednesday November 30, 2016.  

• Included in this announcement are e-files for Tax Years 2013, 2014 and 2015.   

  • After the cutoff time, the Electronic Filing Center (EFC) will not accept Individual Returns (Federal and State) until IRS comes back online January 23, 2017

  • Customers may continue picking up acknowledgements from the EFC through mid-December.

• 1040 efile opening date is Monday January 23, 2017. At that time, current year 2016 returns plus 2015 and 2014 prior year returns will be efileable.

• TaxWise desktop begins accepting efiles at some point the week of January 13th. This will include federal and bank returns plus any state returns that are efile-able. 

• TaxWise participates in the IRS controlled launch program, so some returns submitted before Jan 22nd may be delivered to IRS. However customers should expect that returns submitted early will not be transmitted until the IRS opens efile on Jan 23rd. 

• Returns sent early will not receive acks any earlier than those returns sent Jan 23rd.

Business MeF Schedule

• The IRS accepts Business tax returns as of January 6, 2017.  

  • Current year 2016 plus prior years 2015 and 2014 returns can be efiled now

  • Download the latest federal business modules and you can begin efiling federal business returns. 

  • State business modules will begin downloading the week of Jan 20th. Refer to these charts to know when modules are expected, when efile is expected, and when particular forms are printable. 

Refer to this page for expected delivery dates of modules and activation of efile

Note- this chart is sortable by clicking the column headers

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December 17, 2016

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IR-2016-170, Dec. 14, 2016

WASHINGTON — As tax filing season approaches, the Internal Revenue Service is reminding taxpayers there are things they should do now to get ready for filing season.

For most taxpayers, Dec. 31 is the last day to take actions that will impact their 2016 tax returns. For example, charitable contributions are deductible in the year made. Donations charged to a credit card before the end of 2016 count for the 2016 tax year, even if the bill isn’t paid until 2017. Checks to a charity count for 2016 as long as they are mailed  by the last day of the year.

Taxpayers who are over age 70 ½ are generally required to receive payments from their individual retirement accounts and workplace retirement plans by the end of 2016, though a special rule allows those who reached 70 ½ in 2016 to wait until April 1, 2017 to receive them. Most workplace retirement account contributions should be made by the end of the year, but taxpayers can make 2016 IRA contributions until April 18, 2017. For 2016, the limit for a 401(k) is $18,000. For traditional and Roth IRAs, the limit is $6,500 if age 50 or older and up to $15,500 for a Simple IRA for age 50 or older.

Taxpayers who have moved should tell the US Postal Service, their employers and the IRS. To notify the IRS, mail IRS Form 8822, Change of Address, to the address listed on the form’s instructions. For taxpayers who purchase health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, they should also notify the Marketplace when they move out of the area covered by their current Marketplace plan.

For name changes due to marriage or divorce, notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) so the new name will match IRS and SSA records. Also notify the SSA if a dependent’s name changed.  A mismatch between the name shown on your tax return and the SSA records can cause problems in the processing of your return and may even delay your refund.

Effective Jan. 1, 2017, any Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) not used at least once on a tax return in the past three years will no longer be valid for use on a return. In addition, an ITIN with middle digits 78 or 79 will also expire on Jan. 1. Those with expiring ITINs who need to file a return in 2017 must renew their ITIN. Affected ITIN holders can avoid delays by starting the renewal process now.

Taxpayers should allow seven weeks from Jan. 1, 2017, or the mailing date of the Form W-7, whichever is later, for the IRS to notify them of their ITIN application status - nine to 11 weeks if taxpayers wait to submit Form W-7 during the peak filing season, or send it from overseas. Those who fail to renew before filing a return could face a delayed refund and may be ineligible for some important tax credits. For more information, including answers to frequently-asked questions, visit the ITIN information page on IRS.gov.

Keeping copies of tax returns is important as the IRS makes changes to protect taxpayers and authenticate their identity. Beginning in 2017, taxpayers using a software product for the first time may need their Adjusted Gross Income amount from a prior tax return to verify their identity. Taxpayers can learn more about how to verify their identity and electronically sign their tax return at Validating Your Electronically Filed Tax Return.

October 07, 2016

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New Federal Tax Law May Affect Some Refunds Filed in Early 2017; IRS to Share Details Widely with Taxpayers Starting This Summer

The Internal Revenue Service has announced initial plans for processing tax returns involving the Earned Income Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit during the opening weeks of the 2017 filing season. The IRS is sharing the information now to help the tax community prepare for the 2017 season, and plans are being made for a wider communication effort this summer and fall to alert taxpayers about the changes that will affect some early filers.

This action is driven by the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 (PATH Act) that was enacted Dec. 18, 2015, and made several changes to the tax law to benefit taxpayers and their families. Section 201 of this new law mandates that no credit or refund for an overpayment for a taxable year shall be made to a taxpayer before Feb. 15 if the taxpayer claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit on the return.

This change begins Jan. 1, 2017, and may affect some returns filed early in 2017. Additional information is listed below.

• To comply with the law, the IRS will hold the refunds on EITC and ACTC-related returns until Feb. 15.

• This allows additional time to help prevent revenue lost due to identity theft and refund fraud related to fabricated wages and withholdings.

• The IRS will hold the entire refund. Under the new law, the IRS cannot release the part of the refund that is not associated with the EITC and ACTC.

• Taxpayers should file as they normally do, and tax return preparers should also submit returns as they normally do.

• The IRS will begin accepting and processing tax returns once the filing season begins, as we do every year. That will not change.

• The IRS still expects to issue most refunds in less than 21 days, though IRS will hold refunds for EITC and ACTC-related tax returns filed early in 2017 until Feb. 15 and then begin issuing them.

This is one more step the IRS is taking to ensure taxpayers receive the refund they are owed. The IRS plans to work closely with stakeholders and IRS partners to help the public understand this process before they file their tax returns and ensure a smooth transition for this important law change.

More information about this law will be posted to IRS.gov and shared with partners and taxpayers throughout the second half of 2016.

May 26, 2016

House lawmakers passed the Recovering Missing Children Bill (HR 3209), while the Senate approved the American Manufacturing Competitiveness Bill of 2016 (HR 4923). In addition, members of Congress have asked the Treasury Department and the IRS to clarify the tax treatment of qualified student loan bonds. A Texas man has pled guilty for his role in the "Get Transcript" scam and the IRS announced that failure-to-deposit penalties have been assessed in error and that it is working to correct the erroneously assessed penalties.

Congress

Members of Congress have asked the Treasury Department and the IRS to clarify the treatment of qualified student loan bonds used for refinancing existing student loans (TAXDAY, 2016/05/10, C.1). In addition, clarification was requested regarding the use of tax-exempt bonds for refinancing.

House. The House passed the Recovering Missing Children Bill, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Rep. Erik Paulsen, R-Minn. (HR 3209; TAXDAY, 2016/05/11, C.1). If enacted, HR 3209 would amend the Internal Revenue Code to grant law enforcement access to taxpayer information while investigating missing and exploited children.

Senate. The Senate approved the American Manufacturing Competitiveness Bill of 2016 (HR 4923; TAXDAY, 2016/05/12, C.1). The bill calls for a three-step process under the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill to suspend tariffs paid on needed materials that are not created in the U.S.

IRS

Country-by-Country (CbC) Reporting. The IRS held a hearing on proposed regulations to require annual CbC reporting by U.S. companies that are the ultimate parent of an multinational enterprise group (NPRM REG-109822-15; TAXDAY, 2016/05/16, I.2). Several witnesses supported public disclosure of the reports.

Refund Fraud Guilty Party. A Texas man has pled guilty to one count of theft of public money for his role in a stolen identity refund fraud scheme involving the IRS "Get Transcript" database (TAXDAY, 2016/05/11, M.1). The scheme used stolen personal identification information to file false federal income tax returns.

Failure-to-Deposit Penalties. The IRS announced that some monthly and daily deposits of payroll taxes are being treated as late as the result of a programming error (TAXDAY, 2016/05/13, I.1). The IRS will correct any erroneous penalty assessments as a result of the error.

Qualified Mortgage Bonds/Mortgage Credit Certificates. The IRS released guidance regarding the computation of the housing cost/income ratio by issuers of qualified mortgage bonds (QMBs) and mortgage credit certificates (MCCs) (Rev. Proc. 2016-26; TAXDAY, 2016/05/12, I.2). Issuers of QMBs and MCCs can elect to use either the median gross income figures as released to the Department of Housing and Urban Development on March 6, 2015, or the figures released on March 28, 2016

May 09, 2016

Congress was on recess the week of May 2 but tax reform continued to percolate with lawmakers announcing plans to hold a hearing on reform proposals May 12. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration issued two reports: one finding that the IRS needed to improve its methods to uncover taxpayer abuse of "hobby losses" from unprofitable business activities, and the other finding that the IRS had accurately determined the allowableCode Sec. 36B Premium Tax Credit for over 90 percent of returns claiming the credit. Additionally, the IRS announced that it will commence with its first significant hiring plans in over five years.TreasuryTIGTA. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) reported that the IRS can improve its methods for identifying high-income taxpayers who may be offsetting their income with "hobby losses" from unprofitable business activity (TAXDAY, 2016/05/05, T.1). TIGTA found that the IRS did not maximize the use of all relevant and available taxpayer information in identifying hobby losses, nor did examiners tend to address hobby loss issues when auditing returns containing potential hobby losses.In addition, TIGTA reported that the IRS accurately determined the allowable Code Sec. 36B Premium Tax Credit (PTC) on more than 2.4 million returns, amounting to a correct determination regarding 93 percent of returns with a PTC claim (TAXDAY, 2016/05/04, T.1). TIGTA evaluated the effectiveness of the IRS’s verification of PTC claims to ensure that unauthorized payment or overpayments of the PTC were fully recovered.