Mon Feb 17 09:10:00 UTC 2025: **IRS Urges Taxpayers to Use Online Tools to Avoid Presidents Day Phone Rush**

WASHINGTON — With the 2025 tax filing season in full swing, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is encouraging taxpayers to utilize its online resources to avoid long wait times on its phone lines, particularly during the busy Presidents Day weekend. IRS statistics show that call volume peaks around this holiday.

The IRS highlights its website, IRS.gov, as a central hub for taxpayers. The “Let Us Help You” page offers guidance on various tax-related topics. The site also provides free online filing options through IRS Free File and IRS Direct File, as well as self-service tools for managing tax accounts. Approximately 93% of taxpayers already file electronically, and the IRS emphasizes the benefits of direct deposit for refunds, noting that paper checks are significantly more prone to issues.

For those seeking their refund status, the “Where’s My Refund?” tool offers up-to-date information and improved, clearer messaging. Most Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) refunds, filed via direct deposit, should be available by March 3rd, with status updates expected by February 22nd for early filers.

The IRS also points to several other helpful online tools, including the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) for answering personalized tax questions, and the ability to access important tax documents like W-2s and 1099s through individual online accounts.

The agency also cautions against tax-related identity theft and encourages taxpayers to utilize an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) for enhanced security. The IRS provides guidance on obtaining an IP PIN and offers resources to help victims of identity theft.

Finally, the IRS reminds taxpayers to be cautious when choosing a tax professional, providing links to resources for finding reputable preparers and avoiding fraudulent “ghost” preparers. The IRS stresses that taxpayers remain responsible for the accuracy of their returns, regardless of who prepares them. The agency recommends annually reviewing tax withholding using the Tax Withholding Estimator tool. The IRS concludes by reiterating that IRS.gov is the most efficient way to access tax information and assistance.

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